Discover the mental health support, counselling services, and student wellbeing networks available across Reading's award-winning campuses.
Starting university is one of the most exhilarating milestones of your life. Whether you are living in halls on the stunning, green Whiteknights campus, studying late at the library, or exploring the vibrant town of Reading, your student years will be filled with growth. However, transitioning to higher education also brings its share of challenges. From academic pressure to homesickness, managing your mental and physical health is key to academic success.
Thankfully, you do not have to navigate this journey alone. The range of University of Reading student support services is designed to act as your safety net, ensuring that every student has access to the help they need, when they need it. Based primarily in the Carrington Building at the heart of the Whiteknights campus, these services cover mental health, disability support, financial guidance, and dedicated assistance for international students.
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the various avenues of support available, how to access them, and what to expect when you reach out.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or just need someone to talk to about personal difficulties, the Student Wellbeing Service is your primary contact point. This team is dedicated to supporting student wellbeing across all areas of university life. They offer a safe, confidential space to discuss whatever is on your mind.
The wellbeing team consists of professional welfare officers who can help you manage stress, relationship issues, transition worries, and general personal difficulties. They work on a triage basis, meaning they will assess your needs during an initial conversation and direct you to the most appropriate specialist support.
"When I felt completely overwhelmed by my exams and homesickness in my first term, the student wellbeing team at the Carrington Building was an absolute lifeline. They listened without judgement and helped me set up a manageable daily routine." - Chloe, BA English Literature GraduateFor students experiencing more complex emotional distress or persistent psychological hurdles, the university offers professional counselling services. This service is free, confidential, and available to all registered undergraduate and postgraduate students.
The university's counselling team comprises highly trained, accredited counsellors and psychotherapists. They offer short-term individual counselling, group therapy sessions, and psychoeducational workshops. Short-term counselling is highly focused, aiming to help you develop coping mechanisms for issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, self-esteem struggles, and trauma.
In addition to general counselling, the University of Reading provides dedicated mental health support. Specialist Mental Health Advisers work with students who have diagnosed, long-term mental health conditions. They assist with coordinating your care, liaising with NHS services, and ensuring that your academic department understands how your condition might impact your studies.
The University of Reading is committed to ensuring that all students, regardless of physical ability, neurodiversity, or long-term health conditions, have equal access to education. The disability services team (officially known as the Disability Advisory Service) works tirelessly to implement adjustments that remove barriers to learning.
Whether you have a specific learning difficulty (like dyslexia or ADHD), a physical or sensory impairment, or a long-term medical condition, the advisors are there to help. They can assist with:
| Support Area | Types of Adjustments Available | How to Initiate |
|---|---|---|
| Exams & Assessments | Extra time, computer access, alternative formats, rest breaks. | Register with Disability Services at least 6 weeks before exams. |
| Lectures & Seminars | Lecture slides provided in advance, permission to record, accessible seating. | Discuss with your Disability Advisor to draft your ILSP. |
| Campus Accessibility | Accessible accommodation, parking permits, lift access keys. | Contact the team prior to your arrival on campus. |
With thousands of students from over 140 countries choosing to study at Reading, the university boasts a diverse global community. Moving to a new country can be an incredible adventure, but it also brings unique challenges, such as cultural adjustment, language barriers, and visa regulations.
This is where the dedicated international student advisor network comes in. Located within the International Student Advisory Team, these specialists offer expert, confidential advice on a range of non-academic matters, including:
The team also hosts welcome events, social gatherings, and orientation programmes during welcome week to help you settle in quickly and make friends from day one.
"As an international student from India, the visa regulations seemed incredibly daunting. The international student advisor guided me step-by-step through my application, saving me so much stress." - Aarav, MSc International BusinessFinancial anxiety can take a heavy toll on your mental health and academic focus. If you find yourself facing unexpected financial difficulties, the Student Financial Support team is available to help you navigate your budget and explore funding options.
The university offers several financial safety nets, including the University of Reading Hardship Fund, which provides non-repayable grants to students experiencing severe, unforeseen financial hardship. They also provide emergency short-term loans if your student finance payment is delayed, and offer regular workshops on budgeting and smart shopping in Reading.
Most of the core University of Reading student support services are centrally managed, making it straightforward to find the help you need.
Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. The staff at the University of Reading are dedicated, friendly professionals who are committed to helping you thrive throughout your higher education journey.