Student services

Contact: student.services@gsmd.ac.uk

The Service is committed to the general well-being of the students and in helping them fulfil their potential during their time at the School. It provides a sympathetic and supportive environment to assist students in making the most of their student life and offers a valued and comprehensive range of support services designed to meet their academic and welfare needs. Services include provision of Counselling Support, Health and Welfare Advice, Physiotherapy, Disability Support, including Learning Support for Dyslexic students, Financial Advice, Accommodation and International Student support.

Health

The Health Advice Service exists as an addition to the student's own General Practitioner. The Student Health Advisers provide confidential guidance on healthcare and give advice and support on issues such as stress and anxiety, musculo-skeletal problems, healthy eating, smoking, alcohol and drugs, travel health, exercise, depression and emotional health problems. The Service also includes visiting Complementary Health Practitioners.

Welfare

The Student Welfare Service is available to offer advice and assistance on a range of welfare and practical issues to all students who may experience a variety of problems with personal and legal issues which can impact on their academic life.

Finance

The service also offers guidance on money management and provides limited financial assistance to those students facing unexpected financial hardship. Regulated funds, such as the Access to Learning Fund, the Hardship Fund and the Emergency Loan Facility, are available. Applications to the funds must be supported by evidence of circumstances.

Counselling

The Counselling service is a free and confidential service available to all students at the School. It is staffed by experienced and qualified counsellors and abides by the British Association for Counselling Code of Ethics. The service offers an opportunity to explore a wide range of emotional and psychological issues.

Chaplaincy

The Chaplaincy is at the service of the whole community irrespective of faith and is committed to supporting the spiritual, social and personal needs of the students and staff.

The Chaplain plans a programme of events aimed at fostering a sense of community and understanding within the School, in addition to providing particular support to those in times of special need.

International Students

The International Students Officer provides advice and information on many issues affecting International students, such as immigration, language facility, cost of living, cultural adjustment and accommodation. The International Students Officer also organises activities such as tours of London, daytrips, cultural awareness events and other socio-cultural activities.

Disability and Learning Resources

Student Services provides confidential advice and support to students with disabilities, specific learning difficulties and emotional health requirements and is committed to a policy of equal opportunities for students. To ensure that all needs are catered for, individual consultation with the Disability Co-ordinator is available, as is screening for Dyslexia, and a programme of on-going learning support within the School.