Pastoral Support @ NCL

Here at Newcastle University we provide an inclusive and diverse pastoral support for all students and staff.

We believe that Pastoral Support gives you the space to talk with someone about your concerns and to encourage you in your aspirations. Our Pastoral Support Team offers caring, considerate and confidential support that is focused on listening to your issues and providing encouragement and relief.  

We understand that sometimes your issues may not require a time-focused therapy plan or ongoing mental health support, and that you may just want a trained listener to talk to, perhaps over a cup of tea in a private setting. Of course, if after chatting with a member of our Pastoral Support Team you feel the need to seek further support, or we think that you may benefit from it, we can suggest other services including the Students’ Union Student Advice Centre and other Student Health and Wellbeing services.  

Student Life, Social and Spiritual Support

As well as all the fun times, great memories and positive feelings that student life can provide, we know that it can, on occasion, present you with challenges that require support. This is where the Pastoral Support Team can help you. Made up of University Chaplains, the team can provide you support relating to student life and social issues, as well as spiritual or faith-based queries. It is important to note that although each of the Chaplains belong to a particular faith or belief tradition they are more than happy to support students of all faiths and none.  

Listening Ear

The Pastoral Support team provide regular sessions called ‘Listening Ear’, which allows for an appointment to be booked on the day or in advance for a support conversation.  

Throughout this conversation a Pastoral Team member will listen to your concerns and offer signposting and support.  

If this is something you might find useful please get in touch by emailing the team at: pastoral.support@newcastle.ac.uk 

Pastoral Support and Covid-19

Drawing on a breadth of experience, our Pastoral Support Team are able to provide support virtually, over the phone and if necessary, in person (following social distancing rules).  

We understand that Covid-19 has had a negative impact on student wellbeing, especially for those who are unable to travel home and be with their family and friends. To help alleviate some of the pressures on students who may be having to stay in Newcastle we have created the Walk and Talk scheme. This is an opportunity to join with up to 5 others on a short (45mins) walk in the vicinity of the Newcastle University and offers you the chance to meet new people, get some fresh air, and share with others. You can sign up for these sessions here. 

We have also provided virtual Walk and Talk routes which you can follow with friends without being led by a member of our Pastoral Support Team.  

Faith Specific Queries

As we mentioned, our Pastoral Support Team is made up of University Chaplains who can help you explore your spiritual and faith journey. If this is something you might be interested in you can contact a Chaplain directly or get in touch with the Chaplaincy Service by email.

Also, please remember that if you need urgent help emergency services will still be available.  Information about where to find urgent or emergency help can be found here.