Student wellbeing

When your wellbeing is good, you will feel and function well, and as student you will meet your potential and thrive academically.

At Downing, student wellbeing is supported by a team of registered professionals including a Head of Student Wellbeing, two College Nurses, two College Counsellors and a physiotherapist. We take a holistic, proactive and preventative approach to wellbeing, supporting students to make positive changes and take better care of themselves.

We offer a range of wellbeing interventions including one-to-one physical and mental health consultations; wellbeing advice and signposting; wellbeing self-help tips and techniques; and plans to manage wellbeing. We also run wellbeing campaigns, activities and events throughout the year.

The Downing wellbeing team

Our Head of Student Wellbeing liaises with the wider College welfare team and oversees the design and delivery of Downing’s student wellbeing support. They aim to improve student mental health literacy and better understand the key risks and protective factors for student wellbeing. The Head of Wellbeing provides one-to-one psychological and emotional support to Downing students, including:

  • One-off chats and check-ins
  • A reflective space in which to feel heard and understood
  • Advice and guided self-help on themes such as stress and anxiety, low mood, self-care and coping strategies
  • Signposting to relevant services within College, the University or the NHS
  • Assessments and consultations for more complex mental health difficulties
  • Crisis support where needed

The Head of Student Wellbeing also coordinates and delivers wellbeing workshops and activities.

College Nurses

Our College Nurses offer a range of health and wellbeing support for students including assessment, signposting and advice with minor injuries or mild to moderate mental health difficulties. They can coordinate support from your GP and, in some instances, refer you for more specialised help or treatment.

College Counsellors

Our College Counsellors deliver psychodynamic counselling and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy at the University Counselling Service. In addition, they offer counselling at Downing on two days a week during full term. 

College Tutors

Every Downing student is assigned a Tutor, whose subject normally differs from that of their students.  In most cases, students remain with the same Tutor throughout their studies.  Click here for more information about the support you will have from Tutors.

College Chaplain

Our College Chaplain is available to provide pastoral care and support for all members of the college, whatever your beliefs or background. He is very happy to receive visitors in his study and students are welcome to talk to him confidentially on any matter. 

First aid

A first aid box is held in the Porters’ Lodge and all Downing College Porters are trained first aiders.