Students:
Support at the University of Essex:
You can attend our Wellbeing Drop-In at all 3 campuses which is staffed by Wellbeing Assessors who work for the Student Wellbeing and Inclusivity Service, further information on how to access Drop In can be found here.
Our Wellbeing Assessors can give you a listening ear and signpost you to appropriate services. If you would feel more comfortable with a telephone or Zoom appointment, you can request this via our online appointment form
If you're living on campus, the Residence Life Team is available to assist you. They can offer advice, mediation, and support to address any concerns related to harassment or bullying within the residential community. You can find out more information here.
You can also access SU Advice. The SU Advice Team provide free, confidential, independent and impartial advice on a range of topics and you can find out more information here.
External Support:
All Campuses:
Essex Compass provides a helpline for individuals dealing with domestic violence and relationship abuse. You can access a range of support services, resources, and guidance around these challenges. The Helpline is available from 8 am to 8 pm on weekdays and 8 am to 1 pm at weekends: 0330 333 7 444. You can find out more information here.
Support at the University of Essex:
You can attend our Wellbeing Drop-In at all 3 campuses which is staffed by Wellbeing Assessors who work for the Student Wellbeing and Inclusivity Service, further information on how to access Drop In can be found here.
Our Wellbeing Assessors can give you a listening ear and signpost you to appropriate services. If you would feel more comfortable with a telephone or Zoom appointment, you can request this via our online appointment form
If you're living on campus, the Residence Life Team is available to assist you. They can offer advice, mediation, and support to address any concerns related to harassment or bullying within the residential community. You can find out more information here.
You can also access SU Advice. The SU Advice Team provide free, confidential, independent and impartial advice on a range of topics and you can find out more information here.
External Support:
All Campuses:
Essex Compass provides a helpline for individuals dealing with domestic violence and relationship abuse. You can access a range of support services, resources, and guidance around these challenges. The Helpline is available from 8 am to 8 pm on weekdays and 8 am to 1 pm at weekends: 0330 333 7 444. You can find out more information here.
Refuge is a support service specifically for women and their children. You can reach their helpline 24 hours a day on 0808 2000 247. They provide non-judgmental support to help you understand your options, make a plan, and find specialised services in your community, including a safe place to stay if needed. You can find out more information here.
Respect operates the Men's Advice Line, a helpline, email, and webchat service for male victims of domestic abuse, as well as those supporting them. You can access the helpline from Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm by calling 0808 8010327. You can find out more information here.
Galop provides assistance for relationship abuse and domestic violence within the LGBTQ+ community. Their helpline (0800 999 5428) offers emotional support, information, and guidance tailored to your needs, including exploring options and accessing specialised services. You can find more information here.
Victim Support offers support for domestic violence survivors, regardless of when or whether the abuse was reported. Their free and confidential services are accessible to anyone who has experienced domestic violence. Call your local Essex victim care team at 0808 17 81 694 (8am-5pm, Monday to Friday), or reach out to the Supportline at 08 08 16 89 111 for after-hours support, available 24/7. You can find more information here.
Colchester based:
Next Chapter offers free and confidential services for individuals experiencing or having faced domestic abuse. Committed to a life free from domestic abuse for all, their staff and volunteers are well-trained to provide high-standard support based on individual trauma and needs. They offer immediate safety advice and long-term emotional recovery, supported by practical assistance, all showcased in a film embodying their mission. You can find more information here.
Southend based:
Safe Steps offers comprehensive support for individuals affected by domestic violence and relationship abuse. Their trained Domestic Abuse Practitioners provide personalised assistance, including risk assessment and safety planning. They offer advocacy for various needs like housing, legal matters, mental health, and more. You can contact them by calling 01702 302333 and you can find more information here.
Loughton based:
Changing Pathways provides confidential, free services to those currently experiencing or having faced domestic abuse and related issues like stalking, harassment, and 'honour-based' abuse. They offer refuge accommodation, outreach support, counselling, and more. Their focus is on supporting survivors to rebuild their lives safely, without judgment, ensuring that services are tailored to your needs. You can find more information here.
Staff
Employee Assistance Programme
Joint Trade Unions
ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) guidance on discrimination, bullying, and harassment
The Outhouse