Student Support Hub
We’re here to connect you with trusted services to help you make the most of your time as a student in Bristol. Whether you need advice on housing, mental health, budgeting, or finding your community, we’ve got you covered. Explore the sections below to discover support tailored to your needs. Remember, you’re not alone—there’s help available every step of the way.
Student Support Services in Bristol
Accommodation and Housing
- Bristol City Council Housing Advice: Help with housing issues and tenancy support in Bristol.
Access to Transport
- TravelWest: Transport services and travel advice for Bristol and the West of England.
- Community Transport Bristol: Accessible and affordable transport for students and residents in need.
Budgeting and Financial Support
- Citizen’s Advice Bristol: Free advice on managing finances, benefits, and legal issues.
- StepChange: National charity offering debt management and budgeting support.
- Save the Student: Student-focused guides on budgeting, discounts, and deals.
Digital Skills and Inclusion
- Good Things Foundation: National charity helping people improve digital skills.
Employment and Careers
- Step Together: Bristol-based organisation supporting individuals to find meaningful employment.
- National Careers Service: National support for career advice and job searching.
Legal Advice
- Avon & Bristol Law Centre: Free legal aid for housing, family law, and immigration issues.
- Citizens Advice Bristol: Legal advice on contracts, disputes, and other issues relevant to students.
Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing
- Bristol Mind: Local charity offering mental health support.
- NHS Every Mind Matters: Tips and resources for maintaining mental wellbeing.
- Off the Record Bristol (OTR): Free mental health support for young people aged 11–25.
- Nightline Bristol: Confidential listening service run by students, for students.
Sexual Health and Relationships
- Unity Sexual Health: Bristol-based sexual health service offering contraception, STI testing, and advice.
- Brook: National organisation providing sexual health services and education for young people.
- LoveRespect: Guidance for young people in unhealthy or abusive relationships.
Support for Sexual Abuse Survivors
- The Bridge: Bristol-based Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC), providing medical care, counselling, and support.
- Somerset & Avon Rape and Sexual Abuse Support (SARSAS): Confidential support for survivors of sexual violence in Bristol.
- Rape Crisis England & Wales: National helpline and resources for sexual abuse survivors.
- Victim Support: 24/7 practical and emotional support for sexual abuse survivors.
Social and Community Connections
- The Marmalade Trust: Tackling loneliness through social connection.
- Volunteer Bristol: Find volunteering opportunities to connect with others and give back to the community.
Travel and Exploration
- Visit Bristol: Find local attractions, events, and activities.
- National Express: Affordable coach travel for exploring the UK.
- 16–25 Railcard: Discounts on train travel for students and young people.
Substance Misuse
- Talk to FRANK: Confidential advice and information on drugs and substance misuse.
- We Are With You: Support for addiction recovery and lifestyle changes.
Cultural and Faith-Based Support
- Bristol Multi-Faith Forum: Connecting people of different faiths and cultures.
- Meetup Bristol: Join local groups based on shared interests, hobbies, or cultural backgrounds.
Suicide Crisis Support
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, it’s important to reach out for help. There are services in Bristol and nationally that provide confidential support, advice, and care when it’s most needed. Remember, you are not alone—there is always someone to listen.
- Samaritans: Available 24/7 to provide emotional support for anyone in distress. Call 116 123 for free.
- Papyrus – HOPELINEUK: Support for young people experiencing thoughts of suicide. Call 0800 068 4141 or text 07860 039 967.
- Shout: A free 24/7 text service offering support for mental health crises. Text 85258.
- Off the Record Bristol (OTR): Free mental health support for young people aged 11–25, including crisis support.
- NHS Mental Health Crisis Line: Contact your local NHS mental health team for urgent support. Call 111 and select the mental health option.
- Nightline Bristol: A confidential listening service run by students, for students. Open during term time.