Lancaster University has a range of support services available to students. These can be accessed via the Student Information Desk in the Learning Zone (Alexandra Square) or via the ASK webpages.
As a College, we also offer additional support to students, via our Accommodation Team, College Manager, and our College Community Assistants (who are students employed by the college who can offer signposting and mediation.
Living in the UK
If you are an international student, and are perhaps new to the UK, we provide guidance and support to help you settle in. This includes information on health services, climate, currency, and religion. Of course if you have any questions at all, just ask, and we will be happy to help.
Students with families
Lancaster University is a supportive and inclusive place to study, and we are particularly welcoming of students with families. The city of Lancaster boasts numerous galleries, museums and attractions to keep children entertained, and has a number of excellent schools. Meanwhile on campus, there is a strong community of postgraduate students with young families, a family friendly study and social space within Graduate College (open 9am-7pm daily) - plus a whole host of support services available. We also offer a range of accommodation options suitable for families, from one-bedroom flats ideal for couples, to three-bedroom family homes.
Chaplaincy
Located close to the University reception, the Chaplaincy Centre is a space dedicated for use by the different faith communities of Lancaster University. There are also many different faith groups that may be able to support you during your time here. These include the Buddhist group, the Christian Union, the Islamic Society, the Jewish Society, the Chinese Christian Fellowship, and the Liminal group for LGBT+ people of all faiths.
Feeling down?
At Lancaster University, you are never alone. If you need advice or support, a good place to start is with the College Community Assistants - they are students just like you, and will be happy to help you find the right services available at the University, and can also offer mediation within your flat if your living arrangements are the cause of your unhappiness. You can also contact the Wellbeing, Counselling and Mental Health team to book and appointment if you feel you need more specific support.
The Buddy Programme
We run a 'Buddy' programme for new students in the College. Simply sign up before you arrive and we will match you with your very own College buddy who will help you settle in and answer any questions you might have. If you'd like to be a host-buddy to new students, you can now express your interest. For further information please contact Bethany Dahlstrom: buddyschemegradcol@lancaster.ac.uk
Further support
For Academic support, you should always speak to your supervisor(s) and/or academic department. You can also contact the Learning Developer teams for help with essay writing, research, referencing and so on.
For any other issues, we suggest you contact the College Community Assistants in the first instance, or the College Manager for assistance . You can also ask the Porters, who are available 24 hours a day, and may be able to advise you on the best person to speak to.