If you are concerned about someone's mental health or wellbeing there are a variety of support options available to both students and staff.
For students and staff
Chaplaincy: our chaplains are from all faiths and beliefs.
For students
Centre for Wellbeing: the University’s team of professional counsellors, and mental health advisers offer free confidential support.
University of Surrey Students Union (USSU) is a free confidential, impartial service where students can get advice and information.
Peer Support Service: Peer Supporters are current Surrey students who provide a non-judgemental listening, supportive service to all Surrey students.
The Residential Life team are responsible for the general welfare and good conduct within the halls of residence.
Extenuating circumstances: if you feel your studies have been affected by what has happened you can consider applying for extenuating circumstances (ECs).
Disability and Neurodiversity Service: the University’s dedicated disability advisers can provide advice, guidance, and support to students about a range of practical adjustments to your studies. National Health Service NHS surgeries in the area provide support with a range of physical health and wellbeing issues. You can also use the NHS service search or call 0300 311 22 33 for details of other local surgeries.
For staff
Human Resources: if you are a member of staff or manager your HR contact will be able to identify the support that’s available.
The Employee Assistance Programme, BHSF RISE, gives staff access to free personalised, on-demand advice and support from a team of mental health, financial and legal experts, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Trade unions: there are three recognised trade unions that represent staff at the University: Unison, Unite and UCU.
Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS) provides free and impartial information and advice to employers and employees on all aspects of workplace relations and employment law.
Occupational Health provide a range of occupational health services including, absence management. health surveillance, health screening, work station assessments, policy design, on site assistance/clinics, disability at work, and health promotion.
National Health Service NHS surgeries in the area provide support with a range of physical health and wellbeing issues. You can also use the NHS service search or call 0300 311 22 33 for details of other local surgeries.
Other sources of support
Mental Health Crisis Line: call 0300 456 8342.
Samaritans: a unique charity dedicated to reducing feelings of isolation and disconnection that can lead to suicide. Call 01483 505555 or 116 123 ‘free any time, any phone’ or email jo@samaritans.org.
NHS 111: Call 111 (24 hours a day, 365 days per year).
Safe Haven drop-in centre: for people experiencing a mental health crisis. Open 6pm-11pm, 7 days a week, 365 days of the year at: 101 Walnut Tree Close, Guildford GU1 4UQ.
HOPEline: a confidential support line for students who are having thoughts of suicide
Big White Wall: free, anonymous and non-judgemental online environment supporting your mental health and wellbeing. The services offer support for a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationship problems and lifestyle challenges.
Anxiety UK offers support, advice and information on a range of anxiety and anxiety-based depression conditions. Call: 08444 775 774. Lines are open Monday to Friday, 9:30am - 5:30pm.
Relevant training available for staff
Mental Health Awareness for Managers Masterclass: provides an opportunity for managers to explore the key role they play in spotting the signs of poor mental health, engaging with the issue and supporting their team.
Mental Health Awareness
Positive Psychology Workshop: Flourishing is one of the core topics in positive psychology which represents a state of psychological wellbeing characterised by experiencing positive emotions, engagement (flow), positive relationships, meaning, and a sense of accomplishment. This workshop explores the key parts of the flourishing puzzle and apply practical strategies that promote flourishing at work and beyond.
Resilience for Health and Success (Express Learning): The aim of this session is to increase awareness of modes of thinking, behaviour and actions and empower adjustments to bring energy in line with self and focus on healthy sustainable results.
For more information about available training, please visit our Learning and Development website.