Everyone’s home environment is different, and we know home isn’t always the easiest place to be. If you are struggling with difficult relationships or situations at home over this Christmas period, please do seek support from one of the charities below. If you know there will be conflicts at home, perhaps you can make a list of coping strategies that work for you, whether that’s talking to a close friend, or going for a walk. You may also wish to watch our recent webinar on lockdowns, isolation and relationships. If you are expecting a difficult time at home over Christmas, make sure you look after yourself and plan something to reward yourself afterwards as an act of self-care: something to look forward to and to help you de-stress. 

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Relate: The relationship people

Relate has increased the availability of their highly trained counsellors to support everyone’s relationships during this unprecedented time. Relate have also just launched a new service, relatehub, offering free 30 minute WebChats with their Relationships and Wellbeing Advisors as a direct response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Click here to find out if you are eligible for this service and to find out more about their telephone counselling, webcam counselling and WebChat services.

Click here to find out more

Its okay to talk

Samaritans

Whatever you're going through, a Samaritan will face it with you. You can contact them 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Just call 116 123 for free and immediately speak to someone who can help and support you. If you don't want to call, you can email them at jo@samaritans.org and they will respond to you within 24 hours.

Click here for support

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Mindline Trans+ Helpline

Mindline Trans+ is an emotional and mental health support helpline for anyone identifying as transgender, non-binary or genderfluid. They also support family members, friends, colleagues and carers. Their helpline volunteers have lived experience of being trans or non-binary so provide an understanding and supportive space.

Click here for support

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Refuge Against Domestic Violence

Refuge is host to the Freephone 24-Hour National Domestic Abuse Helpline. Whoever you are, and whatever you have been through, Refuge is here to support you. They run a range of services you can access, including refuges, community-based projects, culturally-specific services, and support for women going through the criminal justice system. If you are experiencing any form of abuse there is help available, please reach out.

Click here for guidance

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Stand Alone

Stand Alone support and raise awareness about adults that are estranged from their family or children.
Stand Alone offers support services to prevent estranged adults and students becoming vulnerable. They talk openly about the experience of family estrangement to help others lead lives that are less isolated. Click here to find out more with advice for students who have no contact with family.

Click here to find out more

Urgent Care

If you need urgent help please contact your doctor, or Imperial College Health Centre on 020 7584 6301.

You can also ask to see someone at the Accident and Emergency department of your nearest hospital. Information about your local A&E services can be found here - Find your nearest A&E - NHS (www.nhs.uk) Call 999 if you need help straight away

Other urgent out of hours mental health support

Samaritans - for people experience high levels of distress including suicidal feelings. Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org, this service is 24 hours.

Shout crisis text service - offers a 24 hour text service, free on all major mobile networks, for anyone in crisis anytime, anywhere. Text 'SHOUT' to 85258.

I need help with

Fitness to Study Procedure Inclusivity StatementStudent Mental Health Code of Practice and Guidelines