Heading off for the winter break?

Whether you're spending the holidays at home or jetting off somewhere else, there's just a few things you need to do before you leave Halls for the winter break.

No one wants to return to messy home in the new year! Give yourself that reassurance that you've done what you need to do before you leave.

Don't forget to...

• Unplug all your electrical items
• Switch all lights off
• Remove all Christmas decorations from your communal kitchens
• Tidy up your bedroom and kitchen 
• Remove any rubbish and fresh food from your kitchen fridge
• Ensure all dishes are washed, dried and stored away in cupboards
• Ensure your windows and doors are closed and secure (keep your key card with you)
• Donate any unwanted, non-perishable food items to Fareshare in the Guild of students reception e.g. pasta, rice, tins
• Having a winter sort out? Donate unwanted clothes, shoes, accessories, books to British Heart Foundation in Guild of Students reception

Any parcels delivered to your hall over the holiday period will be held until your return. No parcels will be returned during this time.  

Please note that there will be changes in cleaning services, catering at Vine Court and timetable changes to 699 bus service. For more details on changes to Halls services over the winter break click here!

Got a question about leaving over the break? Get in touch with your Hall's reception team!

Support over the Winter Break:

You might be heading home for the break but don't forget that there's plenty of support still available, whether you're here on campus or elsewhere.

Health Assured

Health Assured is a 24/7 confidential advice line if you need to chat to someone. On the other end of the phone will be qualified counsellors and advisers to listen and talk through any problems you have without judgement.

You can call Health Assured on 0800 028 3766 and or download the free Wisdom app for wellbeing articles, resources, health checks and more.

Other listening services available:

• Samaritans: call 116123 (24 hours, 365 days a year)
• Papyrus: call HopelineUK 0800 068 4141 (open 24 hours a day) or text 88247

Student Space

Student Space is here to help students find 24/7 support and to remind you that it's ok if you're not feeling merry over the winter break. Student Space run by @StudentMindsOrg is here to support you 24/7 over the holidays. Visit: studentspace.org.uk

Here's three articles you might want to check out this winter break:

• If you’re going home for winter break but don’t want to
• Making the most of your time at home
• Preparing to go back to university after the winter break 

Academic Support 

The winter break is a good time to rest and recuperate! You may have exams coming up in the new year so if you're starting to feel the pressure then don't panic. The Library's online KnowHow page has plenty of support and advice for anyone preparing for exams and assignments!