Whether your family is too far away, you don’t have a traditional support network, or you’re busy working, we know it can feel strange being here when so many people aren’t. Even if you don’t celebrate Christmas, a quiet campus might leave you feeling isolated and bored.
We’ve put together information, advice and activities to support you when the University is closed.
Wellbeing and Mental Health support
Even when the University it closed there are still people you can speak to if you need emotional support, as well as online resources that you can access:
- Spectrum Life: Mental health and Wellbeing support helpline and app available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
- Qwell: Online support available 24 hours a day
- Wellbeing resources on the Student Support website.
- Free Headspace subscription: Headspace gives you access to hundreds of guided exercises for meditation, sleep, focus, and movement and you can access it free a free subscription.
- You might also find these 5 tips for looking after your mental health this Christmas from student Daisy helpful.
Staying in Halls?
Your Reslife team will be on hand throughout the whole period to support you. Keep an eye on the Reslife events page to see what’s planned.
Community Activities
Looking to get out of the house? There’s plenty of ways you can get involved with the local community.
- Organisations across Manchester are always looking for volunteers – especially over Christmas. It’s a great chance to try something new, meet new people and give something back.
- Churches throughout Manchester are hosting community events as well celebration services, offering a warm welcome to all students. The University chaplaincy team will also be on hand throughout the period. Take a look at what’s on.
Find your own holiday magic in Manchester
Student Stuti shares her experience of being in Manchester and away from home over the festive period and we’ve put together our favourite things to do in Manchester over the Christmas break, you might find your new favourite too!
Check out our Christmas support page
See what’s open on campus and how to contact essential services.
Support in a crisis or emergency
If you need someone to talk to immediately, remember you’re not alone and there is always someone you can reach out to:
Support in a crisis
Campus support and security are available across campus – you can contact them via Safezone or by calling the number on your student card.