At Birmingham, you will have access to great networks of peer support and the opportunity to attend a range of events hosted by various services.We work closely with the Guild of Students to ensure that your new home feels like a proper home.
The Student Mentor Scheme
The Guild of Students’ Student Mentor Scheme is a team of current students who work independently to the University; offering free and confidential advice to students living in university accommodation. They are available to support you throughout your time in halls and also host a number of events across the year.
The Student Mentors offer support in lots of areas – here’s a few examples;
- Settling into university life: getting to know campus, adjusting to life in Birmingham, homesickness or advice based on their experience of university life.
- General wellbeing: support if you’re experiencing personal difficulties, guidance on keeping yourself safe, providing advice if you’re worried about a friend or flatmate.
- Living with others: getting on with your new flatmates, flat visits and mediations if you experience any difficulties, and support with moving into the private sector.
- Your academic studies: finding your lecture rooms, course difficulties, getting to know the library, study and revision support, and managing exam stress.
- Financial queries: looking for part time work, budgeting and general money concerns.
There’s no problem too big or too small!
The Scheme also hosts a variety of events and services throughout the academic year, including: wellbeing and social events, confidential 1-2-1 drop-in sessions and mediation to help you work through any accommodation issues.
You will also receive useful information to help you tackle important student issues, including: personal safety, house hunting and extenuating circumstances.
1-2-1 support when you need it most
If you’re feeling homesick, are struggling to adjust to university life or just need a friendly chat - Student Mentors offer regular 1-2-1 drop-in sessions.
This support can be a one-off conversation or on a more regular basis, depending on your needs. If you think that you would benefit from this support then please email mentorwelfare@guild.bham.ac.uk any time, either before or after you arrive at university.
Contacting the Student Mentor Scheme
To access the service please phone, email or visit the Mentor Office based in The Vale Hub, next to The Duck and Scholar (Shackleton). The office is open Monday to Friday, 4pm to 8pm during term time. Outside these opening times please contact your accommodation reception for assistance.
Email: mentorwelfare@guild.bham.ac.uk
Phone: 0121 415 8568
Hall Reps
The Hall Reps are a team of student staff managed by the Guild of Students in partnership with the University of Birmingham.
Each hall has a dedicated Hall Rep, who organises a variety of events and activities throughout the year. The Reps are here to help you settle into halls and make sure you have the best time living in student accommodation.
Get in touch with the Hall Reps and see what activity they have planned via your Hall’s Facebook page!
Email: hallreps@guild.bham.ac.uk
Tel: 0121 415 8949
Global Buddies
Living away from home can be daunting especially if you’ve relocated from another country. The Guild’s Global Buddies are a team of students who offer peer-support to our global student community and host events throughout the year, to help you make friends and settle into university life.
Student Groups and Associations
Whether you’ve just arrived on campus or have been here years, it’s never too late to join a student group, to make friends, develop new skills and discover your passions.
The Guild of Students is home to over 300 student groups, so whether you’re interested in singing, sports, politics or food - you’re sure to find the perfect group for you.
You can join a student group at any point in the year and each group will host its own calendar of events and activities.
View all student groups