Tomorrow is University Mental Health Day (Thursday 12 March). We want to take a moment to recognise that many students are navigating challenges - not just in your studies, but in the wider world around us. It’s a timely reminder that your mental health matters every day. It’s okay to reach out for support whenever you need it.
Whether you’re looking for someone to talk to, ways to manage how you’re feeling or simply a space to pause, there’s a wide range of support available. Our wellbeing services, friendly teams and online resources are here whenever you need them.
All the best,
Yvonne
Head of Student Life
In this edition:
Events in the Middle East: Wellbeing Support and Travel Advice
🌸 Spring Break in Newcastle
💚 University Mental Health Day
✨ Spotlight on the Student Engagement Team
📝 Student stories
📱 24/7 Student Support
📚 Be well@NCL
🎓 Thinking about postgraduate study?
🏆 Celebrate safely this St Patrick's Day and Varsity
👂 You said, we listened, we acted
📰 Other news
Events in the Middle East: Wellbeing Support and Travel Advice
We understand that current global events may be causing uncertainty and worry.
With Spring Break approaching, we’ve updated our Student Noticeboard post with more information about the wellbeing support available to you, along with guidance to help you think through your options if you’re planning to travel soon.
If you're staying in the city, there's plenty to get involved in - events, activities and opportunities to stay connected while you make the most of your time here.
We’ll be updating the webpage regularly over the coming weeks, so be sure to check back for the latest additions.
Join the Student Wellbeing team on Thursday 12 March, 10:00-14:00 in the Stephenson Building Atrium, Level 2 to:
connect with others and meet new people
enjoy a chat and a cuppa
play games
make crafts
pick up freebies
… and much more!
✨ Spotlight on the Student Engagement Team!
The Student Engagement Team is here to support you throughout your time at university. As your first point of contact for Student Services, they can help with information, guidance and next steps.
The team offers friendly, safe and relaxed support. They can answer many queries directly and signpost you to services such as Wellbeing, Careers, Visa and more.
Visit the Level 1 Helpdesk in King's Gate or let the team know if you need a quieter, private space for a confidential chat - they are happy to help!
Hear from our Student Content Creators and catch up on the latest fun student news.
🐶 A paw-sitive idea
How one student walked 100km and found community!
Jack borrowed local dogs for walks after missing his own – turning a simple idea into a 100km challenge raising money for Newcastle Cat and Dog Shelter.
When it comes to destressing and clearing your head, you can't beat a good walk.
Bill highlights some of the more beautiful, scenic areas in and around the city. From the bustling Quayside to the majestic waterfalls of Jesmond Dene, there’s plenty to explore.
You can access Spectrum Life, a free, confidential wellbeing service, whenever you need it.
The wellbeing app provides resources covering mental health, fitness and nutrition, alongside practical tools to help you manage everyday challenges.
If you ever need someone to talk to, you can contact the Spectrum Mental Health Team at any time, day or night. Qualified professionals are on hand 24/7 to provide immediate support or help connect you with further services.
Did you know that the Library has books, eBooks and audio titles to support your wellbeing which you can borrow or download?
Be well@NCL collections are available to browse in the Philip Robinson, Walton and Law Libraries, with eBook and audio versions available online where possible. The collection covers topics such as phone addiction, money worries, neurodivergence, stress and anxiety, sleep problems, depression, low self-esteem, eating disorders, anger and many more.
So why not keep on top of your wellbeing by visiting the Library to browse the print titles or take a look at the Be well@NCL reading list online? Watch the Be well@NCL reels playlist for recommendations of what to read!
Join the Careers Service from Monday 16 March for a week filled with student insights, an NCL Internship Workshop, Q&As and insights into what an internship could do for you!
🏆 Celebrate safely this St Patrick’s Day and Varsity
We want everyone to enjoy this exciting time of year, while also staying safe and being considerate of our wider community.
Whether you’re celebrating on campus, in the city or at home with friends, your behaviour can have a real impact on those around you. From responsible drinking to looking out for friends and being a good neighbour, read the full guidance on the Student Noticeboard.
See how your feedback shapes improvements across the University.
This edition spotlights Sport and Active Wellbeing:
💬 You said: "At peak times, it is difficult to access popular equipment or fitness classes"
👂 We listened: In response to member feedback about overcrowding, we annually adapt and reconfigure the gym floor to enhance the overall training experience.
Our latest update, for the 2025/26 academic term, focused on increasing access to high-demand equipment such as lifting platforms, dumbbells, cables and strength equipment.
We also converted our low-usage spin studio into a functional training space in summer 2024, increasing the overall gym footprint to help meet demand, ease congestion and improve movement flow.
🔍 Need specialist info? Our Resource Guides and Subject Guides point you to the best sources. Learn more on the Student Noticeboard.
⭐ ncl+ Award: If you have signed up, remember to complete your 40 hours of activity and submit your competency answers and activity log by 20 March. Need support? Drop by King’s Gate, Level 1 on Wednesdays, 13:00–14:00.
✝ What Lent means to me as a student: Follow student Callum's journey as he takes on the 40-day tradition of Lent as someone who has been trying to get closer to his faith.
🥾 Explore the UK: For unique and award-winning tour experiences to some of the best places in England and Scotland, look no further than Lundgren Tours!
🛡️ Stay safe on campus: If something or someone makes you feel uncomfortable, including situations where you’re approached for money, support is close by. Download the SafeZone app to contact University Security quickly; help is only a tap away.
🦆 Spring Pond Dip: Join a guided pond dip at Exhibition Park on Friday 13 March and discover the surprising plants and creatures living beneath the surface. No experience needed - just curiosity.
♻️ Join the next Jesmond litter pick: Make a difference in your community by getting involved with the local litter pick on Saturday 14 March, 11:00. Tea and biscuits provided afterwards!
%20(21).png?upscale=true&width=1120&upscale=true&name=newsltter%20banners%20(600%20x%20150)%20(21).png)
