The University will be closed for the Christmas break between Tuesday 23 December and re-opens on Monday 5 January 2026.
During this time, we want to make sure that you have resources available to support you. As well as our External Resource page for general wellbeing, medical emergencies, housing, and financial support, this page is for specific Christmas-related support.
St Mary’s Security team are on-site throughout the closure period (24 hours) for emergencies only and can be contacted by telephone 0208 240 4335 or in-person at the Security Lodge by Main Reception.
Wellbeing
Student Space
Christmas can be a challeging time for some people. You can read supportive articles such as 'Make the most of your time at home', and 'If you're going home at Christmas, but don't want to' on the Student Space website.
Helplines
For free crisis support over the Christmas break:
- text shout (24/7) To start a conversation, text the word 'SHOUT' to 85258
- Phone Samaritans (24/7) To speak to Samaritans, call 116 123
- CALM has a helpline, webchat and Whatsapp feature (open 5pm - midnight) To use the CALM helpline, call 0800 58 58 58
Mind have created dedicated pages including 'Christmas coping tips' and 'support others at Christmas'.
While the holiday season can represent joy & togetherness, it can also be associated with loneliness and anxiety. Togetherall is available throughout the holidays, 365 days a year, 24 hours a day. You get access to this for free by registering with your university email address.
Other support
You can also access:
Financial support
You can access:
Housing concerns
Please check out:
Out of hours medical emergencies
- If you need to seek medical help outside of your doctor's surgery hours you can call the NHS on 111 or visit the NHS 111 website (This service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. In an emergency call 999).
- Or you can find your nearest A&E department.