As you settle into life at University of Bedfordshire, we understand that as international students, there might be times when you need extra support—whether related to academics, wellbeing, housing, or finances. 


At Beds SU, we're committed to ensuring you have access to the right resources to thrive during your time with us. Here's a guide to the key support services available to help you navigate university life.


Academic and Attendance Support


  • Taking a Break or Withdrawing from Studies: 

Sometimes, you may need to take a break from your studies. If you're considering this or need guidance about withdrawing, email the team at IntStudentExperience@beds.ac.uk


  • Absence Queries:  

Unsure about attendance rules or need to report an absence? Contact tracking@beds.ac.uk or international.attendance@beds.ac.uk for help.


  • Mitigation Applications:

If personal challenges are affecting your ability to meet deadlines, you can apply for extensions or reassessments. Email your queries to mitigation@beds.ac.uk for assistance.


Health and Wellbeing Support


  • Crisis Cafés:

  If you need a safe space to talk through mental health concerns, these are available in the evenings and on weekends:


  - Bedford & Luton: 5pm-11pm (appointment only). Call 01525 722 225 or email crisiscafe@mind-blmk.org.uk.


  - Birmingham: 5pm-11pm. Call 0121 262 3555 or email help@birminghammind.org.


  - Milton Keynes, Hackney & Islington: Specific hours and contact details are available for these locations—just reach out to one of the services for support.


  • Samaritans (24/7): If you need to talk confidentially, the Samaritans are available anytime. Call 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.


  • CALM (Suicide Prevention Helpline):  For help in the evenings, contact CALM at 0800 585858 (available 5pm-midnight).


  • Shout (Text Support): Text "Shout" to 85258 anytime for free and confidential text support.


  • Emergency Situations: If you or someone else is in immediate danger, always dial 999..


Housing and Homelessness Support


  • Housing Concerns: If you’re worried about homelessness or facing housing issues, visit the University’s Homelessness Support Page. Your local council can also provide advice, and in emergencies, always dial 999.


Domestic Abuse Support


  • Local and National Help: If you're experiencing domestic abuse, reach out for help through the university’s support channels or visit Safe Spaces in places like Boots, Superdrug, and Morrisons. If you are in immediate danger, call 999 or use the Silent Solution on your phone if it’s not safe to speak.


Warm Spaces to Study


  • Stay Warm, Stay Connected: University libraries are open to offer warm, comfortable study spaces with Wi-Fi and device charging:


- Bedford Library: 8:30am-midnight every day.

- Luton Library: Open 24/7 (check for seasonal staff hours).


  You can also find local warm spaces in Dunstable and Luton. Visit the Warm Spaces Website for more details.


Cost of Living and Financial Support


  • Food Banks: If you're struggling to afford essentials, check the Trussell Trust website to find your nearest food bank and their opening hours.


  • University Cost of Living Support: The University offers several financial support measures to help with the cost of living. Visit the Cost of Living Support Page for more details.


  • Citizens Advice: Need more general financial or housing advice? Visit the Citizens Advice website for guidance.


University Support Contacts


  • Accommodation Contacts:


- Luton CLV (24/7 reception): Call 07808 770659.

- Bedford Homes for Students: Call 01423 855960.


  • Beds SU Support: Your Student Union is here for you! We offer self-help resources and guidance on academic appeals. If you're waiting for independent advice, email adjudication@beds.ac.uk or visit the Beds SU Helpdesk for more information.



SEAM Support (Student Engagement and Mitigation)


  • Mitigation Help: Struggling to meet a deadline? Download the mitigation form and submit it to mitigation@beds.ac.uk to apply for reassessments or extensions.


  • General Support: For advice on attendance or any issues affecting your studies, contact studentengagement@beds.ac.uk.


Health and Wellbeing Services


  • Disability Support: If you have a long-term health condition or learning disability, get in touch with Disability@beds.ac.uk for assistance.


  • Mental Health Support: For practical mental health advice, contact mentalhealth@beds.ac.uk.


  • Counselling Services: If you're facing personal or emotional challenges that impact your studies, reach out to counselling@beds.ac.uk.


Money Advice


  • Student Money Advice: Get help with bursaries or applying to the cost of living hardship fund by contacting studentmoney@beds.ac.uk or visiting the University’s Finance Support Page.


  • Fee Queries: For questions about your tuition fees, including implications of taking a study break, contact sortmyfinance@beds.ac.uk or call Credit Services at 01582 743993.


  • Faculty Finance Officers:


  - Education & Sport: sfoE&S@beds.ac.uk


  - Business School: sfobusiness@beds.ac.uk


  - Creative Arts, Technology & Science (CATS): sfocats@beds.ac.uk


  - Health & Social Sciences (HSS): sfohealth@beds.ac.uk


Community and Faith


  • Chaplaincy Support: Need spiritual or pastoral care? The Chaplaincy team is here for you, regardless of your faith. Contact them via chaplaincy@beds.ac.uk


Careers Advice


  • Career Support and Placements: Need help preparing for the job market or seeking a placement? The Careers Team is here to guide you. Contact them at careers@beds.ac.uk for support.


At Beds SU, we're here to ensure you have the support you need during your time at the University of Bedfordshire.

  • Whether it’s academic guidance, housing issues, wellbeing support, or career advice, remember—we’re in this together. 
  • Reach out whenever you need help!
  • For more information or if you have any questions, don't hesitate to visit the Beds SU Helpdesk.