Your monthly student update
Teesside University
Teesside University

Student update

Although the academic side is a big part of uni life, we know you’ll have more on your mind besides studying. If you need guidance with your physical or mental health, we’re here for you.

We’ve rounded up some of the services you can access at the University to help you stay well. And remember, if you need any advice, you can email studentlife@tees.ac.uk.

Healthy living

Apart from the physical benefits, keeping active can have a hugely positive impact on your overall wellbeing and mental health. With a range of sport facilities and fitness classes, there are lots of opportunities to keep fit while at uni.

Membership costs £40 per semester and gives you unlimited use of the gym, fitness classes, and access to the outdoor pitch, climbing wall and sports hall.

Or, if you want to get fit and socialise too, join one of our sports clubs on campus. From badminton to wheelchair basketball, there’s something for everyone.

Counselling service

Our free, confidential service is dedicated to providing quality counselling and support through a many counselling pathways. We offer both in-person and online support and have developed a range of different counselling interventions.

We know that, in some cases, issues are long-standing and difficult to resolve. Our interventions are intended to work in partnership with you, to help you find meaningful ways to engage with university life.

Make an appointment to discuss how you are feeling and identify the options available to you. Email studentlife@tees.ac.uk or call 01642 342277.

Sexual violence support

The University has a team of dedicated Sexual Violence Officers (SVLOs) who offer confidential support to any student who has experienced sexual violence, at any time in their lives. Whenever the incident occurred, our SVLOs can work with you to talk through your options.

They have links with internal support services, external partner organisations and academic support to help you make informed decisions. Support is led by you, and you are in total control of what you decide to do moving forward.

It can feel overwhelming reaching out for support around sexual violence, but our SVLOs are here to support you. You can get in touch at SVLO@tees.ac.uk or complete a referral form through our webpage below.

Sexual health services

You can access free and confidential sexual health services across Teesside, including information and advice on all types of contraception and STI testing and treatment. Services are confidential, non-judgemental and for people of all ages, genders and orientations.

Sexual health care is also provided on campus by Terrence Higgins Trust who offer drop-in sessions to provide advice, contraception and rapid testing for HIV, Syphilis and Hepatitis C. Drop-in sessions run throughout the academic year in SLB2.30b, Student Life Building.

The next sessions are from 11.00am - 5.00pm on 1, 22 and 29 November. Email Anthony from Terrence Higgins Trust if you have any questions about this service.

Period Dignity campaign

We’re pleased to confirm we’re continuing our Period Dignity campaign throughout the new academic year. You can find free period products in toilets across Middlesbrough campus for anyone who can’t afford them.

Comfortable, organic and planet-friendly tampons and period pads are available in the Library, Middlesbrough Tower, Students’ Union, The Curve, Student Life and Olympia.

We’re also thrilled to be declared a Period Positive University by TOTM for actively tackling period poverty. If you’ve used the scheme, please complete our survey to tell us what you think about it.

Student Space

There’s a lot more to being a student than the academic side. Everyone is going through something, but Student Space is here to support you at every step of your student journey.

However you’re feeling, Student Space can provide free, confidential support to help you outside of regular office hours. You might be struggling with loneliness, grief, money worries or the pressures of university more generally.

There are helpful blogs on their website. Plus, you can use their free text, email or phone service if you’d just like to chat to a friendly volunteer – about anything at all. If you need support now, text STUDENT to 85258.

Supporting your wellbeing

For many students, starting university will mean living away from home for the first time. You may come across situations which are new to you, which could trigger some feelings of stress.

Working with Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust, we’ve developed a new course for 2022 that looks at the transition to university, being a student and how to look after yourself.

Set up a free account with Recovery College Online to access the resources.

Alcohol and drugs

Many people drink socially, so if you choose to drink alcohol, we want make sure you stay safe. With fears of spiking, St John Ambulance is encouraging students to always be alert when out socialising and learn how to spot warning signs in their friends. Learn more.

If you have concerns regarding drug and/or alcohol use, or if you’re feeling under pressure from friends, you can get advice from Change Grow Live, based in the Live Well Centre, Dundas House, Middlesbrough. If you are currently in recovery, Teesside University is a recovery friendly campus.

There are weekly drop-in meetings you can attend on campus. Contact Recovery Connections for more information at info@recoveryconnections.org.uk or on 07949 034820.

Teesside University  Middlesbrough  TS1 3BX