A Message of Peace, Protest, and Support from the Elected Officers and your Students’ Union

The Elected Officers and the Students’ Union recognise the impact that global conflicts continue to have on many within our community. We welcome all efforts to establish and uphold ceasefires, and we call for an immediate and lasting stop to fighting and violence in all parts of the world affected by conflict.

Our thoughts are with all those enduring the consequences of war, displacement, and unrest - whether directly or through familial ties. As a Union, we stand with all members of our community affected by these events. We recognise the weight of these times and remain here to listen and support you.

We want to reaffirm our recent statement: 

“Your Union remains committed to maintaining a student community built on care, understanding, and mutual respect. While political views and emotions may differ, we ask all members of our community to treat each other with compassion and dignity.

In moments of global unrest, supporting one another matters more than ever. UPSU is committed to providing a space where students feel safe, supported, and heard. We support students’ legal rights to freedom of expression and peaceful protest. We also uphold our responsibility to maintain respectful and inclusive dialogue on campus.”

We understand that this may be a difficult and emotional time for many, and that ongoing events around the world can affect people in different ways. If you are feeling worried, distressed, or simply need someone to talk to, please know that support is available. We are here for every member of our student community, and we encourage you to reach out if you need help.

Here are some services which are available to you:

The Union Advice Service: The Union Advice Service offers confidential, impartial and non-judgemental support on a range of academic and university issues that may affect your experience.

Email: advice@upsu.net

Phone: 023 9284 3478

Location: Underneath the Student Centre where the Eye Clinic used to be, Cambridge Road, Portsmouth, PO1 2EF. Open from 10am - 4pm Monday - Friday.

Student Life Team: For advice, guidance, and ongoing support with concerns related to your wellbeing.

Email at studentlife@port.ac.uk

Student Wellbeing Service: Offering same-day interventions for students experiencing distress. The team includes Mental Health Advisers and Wellbeing Advisers who can help you develop coping strategies. 

Phone:+442392843466 

Email: wellbeing-admin@port.ac.uk

Chaplaincy: Providing pastoral and spiritual support regardless of faith or belief. Our chaplains are available for confidential conversations. 

Email: chaplains@port.ac.uk 

ResLife Team: If you need urgent support outside of regular university hours, our ResLife team is available for students living in university accommodation. 

Phone: +44 (0)23 9284 3333

Email: reslife@port.ac.uk

Student Finance: 

Phone: +44 (0)23 9284 3014 

Email: studentfinance@port.ac.uk

In person: Drop-in - you may need to make an appointment to see one of their advisers

Opening times are Monday to Thursday, 8.30am – 5.00pm, Friday: 8.30am – 4.00pm, and the centre is closed on Saturday and Sunday and bank holidays.

Campus Security is available 24/7 for emergencies or non-urgent assistance. You can reach them at +44 (0)23 9284 3418.

Instances of hate crimes are treated with utmost seriousness. If you become aware of any such incidents on campus, please use the Report + Support tool page to report them. You have the option to report anonymously.

We are here with you - listening, supporting, and standing together.