Welfare and Support

Support at John Snow College

The Senior Tutor/Vice Principal (ST/VP), alongside the Student Support and Admissions Officer (SSO), are responsible for overseeing all pastoral and welfare matters within the College. If you need to discuss any matters which are affecting your academic studies such as personal, financial and/or medical issues, then you can make an appointment to meet with the ST/VP or SSO; we also run a drop in service during normal working hours. We respect the fact that you are over 18 and we will not discuss any matters with your parents or guardians without your permission.

Our ST/VP is Janet Dixon-Dawson: janet.dixon-dawson@durham.ac.uk - 0191 33 40034 and our SSO is Gini Bedford: v.l.bedford@durham.ac.uk - 0191 334 0011 who provides advice on financial matters, health and welfare services, childcare and guidance in personal development. If you find yourself in hardship at any point throughout your course, contact the Student Support & Admissions Officer, who can advise you on the sources of funding available from the University.

Our College Mentor system also provides excellent academic and pastoral support for John Snow College students. Each student is allocated a College Mentor in their Fresher year.

Out of hours support: The College has 24/7 welfare cover. We have a Caretaker and Security staff who are on duty at John Snow College and 24/7. In the event of a welfare emergency, Security will contact the College Officer (Principal, ST/VP or Bursar) on the emergency rota.

University-wide Support Services

The University Counselling Service offers a quiet and confidential place with trained counsellors to help students work through difficulties.

The Students' Union (DSU) has a dedicated advice centre that offers free advice on finance and student funding, and academic, personal and employment issues. It is also a useful initial contact for legal advice and has an education and welfare officer.

Nightline is an anonymous, non-directive and non-judgemental support service set up and run by students for students. As well as someone to listen, it also provides pregnancy testing, condoms and loan of attack alarms.