Everyone's Journey Is Different
Seeking support can feel like a significant step.
Whether you are experiencing a difficult situation, supporting someone else, or simply looking for advice, finding the right support can make a meaningful difference.
At the University of Wolverhampton, we recognise that there is no single approach that works for everyone. People access support in different ways, for different reasons, and at different points in their journey.
What matters most is that you feel able to access support that feels safe, appropriate and meaningful for you.
Our Commitment to You
The University is committed to providing support that is:
- Compassionate
- Inclusive
- Trauma-informed
- Person-centred
- Accessible
- Respectful
Our services seek to meet people where they are, recognising that every person's experiences, circumstances and needs are different.
We understand that reaching out for support can feel difficult. Our aim is to provide spaces where individuals feel listened to, respected and empowered to make informed choices about the support they receive.
What Does Trauma-Informed Mean?
A trauma-informed approach recognises that experiences such as abuse, discrimination, loss, violence, exclusion, harassment, exploitation or adversity can affect how people engage with services and support.
A trauma-informed service seeks to:
- Create physical and emotional safety
- Build trust and transparency
- Offer choice and control
- Work collaboratively
- Recognise strengths and resilience
- Avoid re-traumatisation
You should never feel pressured into accessing support in a way that does not feel right for you.
Why Choice Matters
People often choose support services based on more than the issue they are experiencing.
They may also consider:
- Trust
- Lived experience
- Cultural understanding
- Language
- Faith or belief
- Identity
- Accessibility
- Previous experiences of support
- Confidence that they will be understood
For some individuals, University-based support will feel like the right option.
For others, a specialist community-based service may feel more appropriate.
Many people choose to access both.
Cultural Competence and Cultural Humility
We recognise that individuals bring different identities, experiences and perspectives.
Whilst University services strive to be culturally aware, inclusive and responsive, we also recognise that some people may prefer to engage with organisations that specialise in supporting particular communities or experiences.
This may include services supporting:
- Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities
- Refugees and asylum seekers
- International students
- Faith communities
- LGBTQ+ communities
- Disabled people
- Victims of hate crime
- Survivors of abuse or violence
- Men affected by abuse
- Women affected by abuse
Seeking support from a service that reflects or understands your lived experience is a valid and important choice.
You Don't Have to Navigate This Alone
Support can come from many places, including:
University Services
Including wellbeing, safeguarding, disability support, student support, employee wellbeing and specialist advisers.
Community and Voluntary Organisations
Providing specialist expertise and culturally specific support.
Health Services
Including GPs, NHS services, counselling and mental health support.
Faith and Community Networks
For those who find support through faith, spirituality or community connections.
Friends, Family and Trusted Individuals
Sometimes the first step is simply talking to somebody you trust.
There Is No Wrong Door
You do not need to know exactly which service you need before reaching out.
If you contact a service that is not the best fit for your situation, we will do our best to help you identify the most appropriate support available.
The most important step is reaching out.
Supporting Someone Else
If you are supporting a friend, colleague, student or family member, remember that different people will have different preferences.
Rather than assuming what support somebody needs, consider asking:
"What would feel most helpful for you right now?"
Listening, respecting choices and helping people explore options can be just as important as providing solutions.
Your Choice, Your Voice
We believe that people should be able to make informed choices about the support they access.
Some people will choose University services.
Some people will choose specialist external organisations.
Many people will choose a combination of both.
There is no right or wrong choice.
The right support is the support that helps you feel safe, heard, respected and empowered.
Need Help Deciding Where to Start?
If you're unsure which support service may be most appropriate, you can:
- Submit a named Report + Support form and request contact from an adviser.
- Contact the University's Safeguarding Team.
- Contact Student Life, Mental Health and Wellbeing Services.
- Contact Human Resources or the Employee Assistance Programme (for staff).
- Explore the specialist support organisations listed throughout this site.
You do not need to have all the answers before asking for support.