First and foremost, we wish all students a happy, festive Christmas and holiday season, as well as well-wishes for the new year.
We understand that while this time of year is fun for many, the dark months can lead to lower moods and feelings of loneliness. No matter where you're staying for Christmas, be it in Campus Halls or at home with family, it's very important to take care of both your physical and mental health. AUB has plenty of resources and links to help you through tough times.
See below for more information about when our support systems are reopening, and what's available in the meantime.
AUB Wellbeing Support and University Retreat
AUB Wellbeing is closed for now, but from 2 January 2024 you'll be able to book online drop-ins and appointments.
Our in-person appointments will be available from 8 January 2024.
The AUB and BU University Retreat will also re-open from 2 January 2024. This is a relaxing drop-in centre for students, open from 14.00–21.00 Monday–Saturday. Please be aware that this service will be closed from 8–12 January for training.
You can book an online or in-person session via our booking system website, or email wellbeing@aub.ac.uk.
Alternative crisis support
There are plenty of resources available outside of AUB to help you in times of need:
The Hahnemann House Retreat
The Retreat is a safe and welcoming environment for anyone over 18 years of age, based in Dorset and who've self-identified their crisis and want to access support.
You can find them at Hahnemann House, Hahnemann Road, Bournemouth, BH2 5JW, open daily from 16.30–00.00. Feel free to drop in – no appointment needed.
Student Space
Student Space offers online support and advice, with information around navigating the winter break as a student via their website.
Connections
Connections is a 24/7 healthcare helpline for anyone experiencing a crisis with their mental health. You can contact them on 111.
Shout
Shout is the UK’s first 24/7 text service, free on all major mobile networks, for anyone in crisis anytime, anywhere. You can text them on 85258.
The Samaritans
To speak to someone in confidence, the Samaritans are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week on 08457 909090 or 116 123 (free for mobiles and landlines). You can also email jo@samaritans.org.
Hub of Hope
To find mental health and crisis services in your local area, from all across the UK, simply type your postcode into the search bar on https://hubofhope.co.uk/.
Paragon
Dorset’s domestic abuse helpline. Call 0800 032 5204, or for the Bournemouth and Poole outreach team, call 01202 547 755.
Refuge
National domestic abuse support. Call 0808 2000 247, or get in touch with their online live chat and resources at https://www.nationaldahelpline.org.uk/.
