As the winter vacation approaches, here are some reminders of wellbeing support you might find useful. We’ve also included tips for this time of year, whether you have travel plans or are staying in Sussex.

We are here for you

The University offers advice and support on any issue that may be affecting you in the lead up to the holidays. You can contact the Student Centre in person at the Welcome Desk, by phone (01273 075700), or online via the My Sussex portal. You can also use My Sussex to book an appointment to visit our friendly advisors.

Minimum service days start on Monday 23 December until Wednesday 1 January (back on Tuesday 2 January).

Looking after your wellbeing

While the holiday season can represent joy, gratitude, and togetherness, it can also be associated with family and financial pressure, loneliness, anxiety and tension. Even if you look forward to the holidays, it’s normal to experience periods of stress or difficulty.

As part of the University's mental wellbeing support, you also have 24/7 access to Togetherall, an online community where people share with and support one another anonymously. Sign up to access self-guided group and individual courses, a library of useful articles and resources, and one-on-one therapy delivered through web appointments.

Travel tips

If you’re travelling within the UK, you can save one third of your journey fare with a valid Railcard. Make sure to check your journeys in advance in case of any disruption too.

If you’re travelling internationally, an International Student Identity Card (ISIC) could help you access discounts and verify that you’re a student.

You can find information and support for international students on the Student Hub.

If you’re thinking of booking ahead for future vacations, you can check term dates for the rest of this academic year.

Staying over the winter vacation

For those of you staying on campus or locally, there is plenty going on in December. You can find links to campus opening hours on the Staying over the holidays page.

There are many fun festive activities to do in Brighton at this time of the year, and we have also organised a complete programme of activities where you can meet fellow students.

You might want to explore some of the beautiful walking routes around the South Downs, weather permitting. The Sport Centre will also be open until Saturday 21 December and for few hours on Monday 23 December. The Falmer Sports Complex will be closed on Monday 23 December but it will open between 10am and 4pm on 27 and 31 December. Check their opening hours on Sussexsport website.

Wherever you are, we hope you have time to relax over the festive period.