If the University has attempted to contact you because of concerns about your welfare, safety or whereabouts, you may be experiencing a range of emotions.
Some students feel relieved that somebody noticed they were struggling.
Others feel embarrassed, frustrated or annoyed that concerns were raised at all.
Whatever your reaction, it is important to understand why the University acted and what happens next.
First Things First
Being the subject of a welfare concern, missing student enquiry or safeguarding escalation does not automatically mean:
- you have done something wrong;
- you are in trouble;
- you are being investigated;
- you will face disciplinary action;
- the University believes you are incapable of managing your own life.
In many cases, staff simply became concerned because they could not establish that you were safe.
The University's first responsibility is to take reasonable steps to protect students where significant welfare or safeguarding concerns arise.
It Is Normal to Feel Annoyed
Some students tell us:
"I was fine. I just wanted to be left alone."
Others say:
"I didn't realise people were worried."
or
"I was overwhelmed and stopped responding to everyone."
If you feel frustrated by the University's actions, that reaction is understandable.
However, staff are often required to make decisions based on the information available to them at the time.
When a student suddenly stops engaging and concerns exist about their welfare or safety, staff cannot simply assume everything is okay.
It Is Normal to Feel Embarrassed
Students sometimes worry that:
- they have caused a fuss;
- they have wasted people's time;
- others think they are incapable;
- people will judge them.
Please try not to be too hard on yourself.
Periods of difficulty happen for many reasons.
Students may disengage because of:
- mental health difficulties;
- physical health problems;
- family difficulties;
- financial pressures;
- bereavement;
- relationship breakdown;
- caring responsibilities;
- burnout;
- exhaustion;
- simply feeling overwhelmed.
Needing support is not a personal failure.
Why Did the University Become Concerned?
Every situation is different.
Common reasons include:
- prolonged absence;
- inability to contact you;
- concerns raised by friends or classmates;
- concerning communications;
- previous wellbeing concerns;
- reports from accommodation providers;
- safeguarding concerns.
Often it is not one thing, but a combination of factors that leads to escalation.
What If I Deliberately Wanted Time Alone?
Many students withdraw temporarily when things become difficult.
Wanting space is understandable.
The difficulty for the University is that staff cannot always distinguish between:
"I need some time to myself."
and
"I may be at risk and need help."
Where there is uncertainty, the University may need to make enquiries to establish your welfare.
What If My Trusted Contact Was Contacted?
If a Trusted Contact was involved, you may have strong feelings about that.
You might feel:
- grateful;
- upset;
- angry;
- relieved;
- disappointed.
The University recognises that decisions about information sharing can feel significant.
Trusted Contact notifications are not undertaken lightly and are only considered where there is a safeguarding rationale for doing so.
The aim is always to support safety and wellbeing, not to remove your independence or autonomy.
Will This Affect My Studies?
Not necessarily.
A welfare concern, safeguarding referral or missing student enquiry does not automatically affect:
- your academic record;
- progression;
- professional standing;
- disciplinary status.
In some situations, the University may wish to discuss whether additional support would be helpful.
This may involve:
- Student Life;
- Mental Health and Wellbeing;
- Support to Study;
- Academic Support;
- Safeguarding.
The focus is usually support rather than sanction.
Returning After a Period of Disengagement
Returning can sometimes feel awkward.
Students often worry:
"What do I say?"
"Will people ask questions?"
"Will everyone know what happened?"
In reality, most staff simply want to know that you are safe and to understand what support may help you move forward.
You do not have to disclose personal details you are uncomfortable sharing.
A simple conversation about what support you need now is often enough.
Looking Forward
If your absence was linked to difficulties in your life, this may be a useful opportunity to consider:
- What contributed to your disengagement?
- What support might help going forward?
- What could be done differently if difficulties arise again?
- Who could you contact earlier next time?
There is no expectation that you have all the answers immediately.
A Final Thought
Sometimes students tell us:
"I didn't think anyone would notice."
Others tell us:
"I wish someone had checked in sooner."
The University cannot always get every decision right, but our intention is always to act with care, compassion and concern for student welfare.
If concerns were raised about you, it is because somebody believed your wellbeing, safety or success mattered.
And it does