If you have been referred to the University's Support to Study process, you may be feeling worried, confused or uncertain about what happens next.
Many students tell us that receiving an email or invitation relating to Support to Study can feel anxiety-provoking, particularly if they are unsure why concerns have been raised.
The first thing to know is this:
Being referred to Support to Study does not mean you are in trouble.
It is not a disciplinary process and it is not intended to punish students for experiencing difficulties.
In most cases, the purpose of the process is to understand what is happening, identify any barriers affecting your studies and explore what support may help.
Why Might Someone Have Referred Me?
Staff may raise concerns when they are worried about a student's wellbeing, engagement, safety or ability to continue studying successfully without additional support.
Examples may include:
- Significant changes in behaviour or presentation;
- Reduced engagement with studies;
- Attendance concerns;
- Serious wellbeing difficulties;
- Personal circumstances affecting study;
- Concerns about safety or welfare;
- Situations where several concerns have been raised by different staff members.
Sometimes students are referred because staff care about their wellbeing and are concerned that they may not be receiving the support they need.
Does This Mean I Have Done Something Wrong?
Not necessarily.
Support to Study is not designed to determine blame or fault.
The process recognises that students can experience difficulties for many reasons, including:
- Physical health conditions;
- Mental health difficulties;
- Disability;
- Neurodivergence;
- Pregnancy or parenthood;
- Financial pressures;
- Housing difficulties;
- Caring responsibilities;
- Family or relationship concerns;
- Bereavement;
- Personal crises.
The purpose of the process is to understand what may be affecting you and whether additional support would be helpful.
What Happens Next?
This depends on the circumstances.
Many concerns are resolved through a supportive conversation at Stage 1.
You may be invited to discuss:
- what has been happening;
- how you are managing;
- any barriers you are experiencing;
- support that may be available;
- practical steps that could help.
In many cases, concerns are resolved at this stage and no further action is required.
What If I Am Invited to a Meeting?
If concerns require more structured review, you may be invited to a Support to Study meeting.
You will normally be told:
- why the meeting is taking place;
- what concerns have been raised;
- who will be attending;
- what the purpose of the meeting is.
The meeting is an opportunity to:
- share your perspective;
- explain your circumstances;
- discuss support needs;
- explore possible solutions;
- ask questions.
You are not expected to face the process alone.
Can I Bring Someone With Me?
Yes.
You may bring a supporter to meetings.
This could include:
- A friend;
- A family member;
- A Students' Union representative;
- An advocate;
- Another person who can provide support.
The University wants you to feel able to participate fully in the process.
What If I Have a Disability, Health Condition or Other Support Needs?
The University recognises that health conditions, disability, neurodivergence, pregnancy and personal circumstances can affect how students engage with their studies.
Where relevant, the University will consider:
- Whether concerns may be linked to disability or health;
- Existing support arrangements;
- Reasonable adjustments;
- Additional support that may help reduce barriers.
The aim is to make fair, informed and proportionate decisions.
What Should I Do Before the Meeting?
You may find it helpful to think about:
What challenges am I currently facing?
What support am I already receiving?
What is working well?
What is making study difficult at the moment?
What support do I think might help?
You do not need to have all the answers.
Many students use the meeting to begin exploring these questions.
What If I Disagree With the Concerns?
That is okay.
The process is intended to hear different perspectives.
You may have information or context that staff are unaware of.
You will have an opportunity to explain your views and help others understand your circumstances.
Support to Study works best when it is a conversation rather than something that happens to you.
What Outcomes Might There Be?
Most students continue studying with appropriate support.
Possible outcomes may include:
- Accessing additional support services;
- A support plan;
- Reasonable adjustments;
- Monitoring and review arrangements;
- Referrals to specialist services;
- Further meetings where required.
Only a very small number of cases progress to more formal stages involving consideration of interruption of studies or other restrictions. These decisions are only considered where significant concerns or risks remain and after other options have been explored.
Your Rights
Throughout the process, you have the right to:
- Be treated with dignity and respect;
- Receive information about concerns being discussed;
- Share your views and experiences;
- Request reasonable adjustments;
- Bring a supporter;
- Receive decisions in writing;
- Appeal certain decisions where applicable.
Looking After Yourself
Being referred to Support to Study can sometimes feel unsettling.
It is normal to experience feelings such as:
- Anxiety;
- Frustration;
- Confusion;
- Worry;
- Embarrassment;
- Uncertainty.
Try to remember that a referral does not define you, your abilities or your future.
Many students access support at different points during their university journey.
Seeking support is not a sign of failure. It is often an important part of success.
Remember
Support to Study exists because the University wants students to succeed safely and effectively.
The process is designed to identify concerns early, understand what is happening and work with you to find appropriate support.
You are not expected to manage difficulties on your own.
The University will seek to work with you, wherever possible, to help you overcome barriers, access support and continue progressing towards your goals.