Description

Welcome to University of Bristol Wellbeing Network! 

The Wellbeing Network was created to ensure that our wellbeing needs, as students, are being met by the policies, services and culture at university. We bring together students, societies, university staff and external partners to:

• Raise awareness of different aspects of student life that affect mental health and wellbeing;
• Organise events that are beneficial to wellbeing;
• Give voice to students with lived experience of the policies, services and culture at university;
• Campaign for better support for all students with differing needs.

Who's part of the network?

• You! Every University of Bristol student is eligible to become a member of the Wellbeing Network (simply click Join this Group). 
• Student groups and societies which are focused specifically on promoting wellbeing through their events and activities:
  • Beat This Together
  • Black Dog Project
  • Bristol Nightline
  • Conservation Group
  • Peace of Mind
  • Students for Global Health
  • Support Our Services
  • That's What She Said Magazine
  • Transcendental Meditation Society
  • Zen Society

Peer Support Network

The Wellbeing Network brings together peer support groups from around the University of Bristol community. These groups, run entirely by students, are free and offer supportive environments to all. Here are a few of the groups we work with (and meet on a regular basis):

• Beat This Together (BTT)  is dedicated to raising awareness about eating disorders, weight stigma and body shaming. They run yoga and mindfulness classes every other Saturday evening, at 6pm. Visit their Facebook page for more information.
• Grief, Terminal and Life-threatening Illness Support Group - Discuss difficult topics of grief, terminal illness or life-threatening illness in a friendly environment (including all forms of serious illness: cancer, COVID-19, Parkinson's disease, among others)
• PROJECT:TALK Bristol - A mental fitness society which provide 1:1 chats, mental fitness yoga, walks, baking and more. They are helping change the way Bristol views mental health and teach invaluable skills in mental health first aid.
• Speak Up - Providing a safe space for students to improve their confidence and practice public speaking, as well as 1:1 sessions to help with academic presentations
• Talk Club - A community around hosting spaces for students of all genders to open up around University. Regular in-person sessions every Saturday morning from 10:45-11:45

Where else can I get support?

• Joining any of the societies above is a great way to make friends and build your support network.
• There are also some great student-led support groups. Talking with people who have had similar experiences can be really beneficial when you're struggling with your wellbeing.
  • Bristol Drugs Project runs a drop-in stall at the Student Union every Friday. They are an independent organisation, unaffiliated to the University, who offer professional advice and free drug-testing kits. Sign up either by emailing thedrop@bdp.org.uk or by texting 07 814 617 687 (WhatsApp available).
  • The Wellbeing Network has launched a University-wide Buddy Scheme, which is open to every and all students and is a great way to connect with, talk to and meet new people. Over 400 students have already joined. You can do so by completing this form.
  • You can also call Nightline anytime on 01179 266 266 between 8pm and 8am for a non-advisory listening service.
• If you would like professional support, complete the Support Request Form here or call +44 (0)117 456 9860 and the university Wellbeing Advisors will help find the right support for you.

To keep up to date with our events and campaigns:

• Join this group (for free)
• Follow us on Instagram @bristolwellbeingnetwork

If you want to know more about wellbeing at university:

• Visit the university student wellbeing page to find out where to get help and how to look after yourself
• Email us at wellbeingnetworkbristol@gmail.com with any queries

We also want to hear from any student who wants to see a change in the policies, services or culture at university. We can help ensure that your voice is listened to by the people that can make the changes you want to see.

The Committee 2023/24

Welfare Officer: Jocelyn Wong

Positions open for Election in September 2024:

Chair

Vice Chair

Equality and Diversity Officer

Events Officer

Social Media and Communications Officer