Pause drop-ins now open to all students
If you’ve heard of Pause before, you might know it’s been a service for under-25s. But now, their drop-in sessions are available to all students, no matter your age, and they’re keen to welcome you!
Whether you are in needed of a break in between studying, a listening ear, advice, or just a safe space where you can unwind and have a chat with other students – Pause can provide all of the above.
Pause@uni is a place for all students, whether undergraduate or postgraduate, where you can talk about anything that may be worrying you. They are a friendly team of trained and experienced workers and are here to share support and advice if needed.
They’re open throughout the year, including all of the University vacations.
You are welcome to visit Pause in the Wellbeing Lodge (right by North Gate, opposite the Community Safety Hub) for a confidential, one-to-one session. You do not need to make an appointment, just drop by.
Drop-in opening hours:
- During teaching time: every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 11:00 - 17:00
- Outside of teaching time: every Tuesday and Wednesday, 11:00 - 17:00
What to expect from a 1:1 drop in
- A warm welcome, no appointment needed.
Think of stopping by Pause as a popping in to visit a friend or relative for emotional support. The team in the Wellbeing Lodge are always ready with a smile and an offer of refreshments.
- Friendly, professional support
All Pause staff are trained mental health professionals so it’s not just a friendly chat: it’s professional help in a relaxed, friendly setting. They’re here to listen and help you make sense of any issues you’re experiencing.
- A quick registration
The first time you visit, you’ll be asked for a few basic details: your home address, GP, any disabilities, and consent to chat. It’s a quick few questions that the Pause team can support you with and explain.
- A completely confidential, safe space to talk about anything
Whether it’s academic pressure, personal relationships, or just feeling overwhelmed, you can speak freely. Everything you share is completely confidential (unless there is a considered risk to your life or life of others) so you can freely talk about anything that is on your mind. Whether that’s academics, personal relationships or social life – whatever you say is safe with Pause.
- Signposting to further support
If the Pause staff feel like you could do with additional support, they’ll be able to signpost you to other services that could help you.
Why it helps to talk
- Reduces stress and anxiety
Talking through your issues and opening up can ease mental strain and reduce anxiety levels, especially during high-pressure times like exam season.
- Helps you make sense of things
Talking things through with someone trained to listen can bring clarity and perspective on issues you may have struggled to untangle on your own.
- Builds emotional resilience
Regular conversations about how you’re feeling can boost your confidence and help you face challenges with greater self-awareness.
- Connects you to wider support
When we’re feeling low, it’s easy to feel isolated in our problems. Reaching out reminds you that you’re not alone and connects you to the free network of support services designed to help you not just survive but thrive at university.
No matter what you are going through, remember that the we’re always here to support you so if you feel like you or anyone you know might need some extra support don’t hesitate to reach out!
Explore UoB support services.