Start with observations
Absence or withdrawal may have many explanations. A discreet conversation based on observations and an open question is preferable to interpreting someone’s psychological state.
Student isolation: notice without stigmatising
Open a door to support without labelling the person.
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Offer without forcing
Explain available resources and let the person choose their next step. Support contacts should not create lists of supposedly vulnerable students or share confidences with teaching staff.
Take action in your organisation
Choose an initial need, audience and contact person. Birds Meet can help shape an appropriate format. This resource is informational and does not replace individual professional advice.
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Creating discussion spaces on campus
A welcoming room is not enough: structure, facilitation and referral give a discussion space its purpose.
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Preventing exhaustion before exams
Prevention works best when it starts before the busiest weeks.
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Training student listening contacts
A support contact can welcome a request without becoming a therapist.
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What if we started with a conversation?
Tell us about your organisation and goals. Let’s find the right support for your communities.
Let’s talk about your project