Listening Ears

John had recently suffered a family bereavement which affected his studies and he needed support. The Listening Ear was able to help him by giving him information about counselling at the University and counselling organisations outside the University. The Listening Ear was also able to support John in submission of extenuating circumstances and by speaking to his tutors on his behalf.

The Listening Ear and Jade spoke on the phone for half an hour. Jade was pregnant and on a nursing placement which required heavy lifting, and was unsure how her pregnancy would affect her studies. Jade wanted to withdraw from her studies so the Listening Ear arranged to meet Jade and was able to support her through the academic issues relating to the timing of the birth.  The Listening Ear further illustrated options that were open to her to alleviate the concerns she had about studying whilst pregnant.

The Listening Ear was able to negotiate with Jade and her placement provider, that within the academic term Jade would concentrate more on blood pressure and vital signs rather than facilitating the movement of patients or heavy boxes, which would be unsuitable. When Jade returned to university the Listening Ear was on hand to discuss issues relating to the dual role of new parent and student.

Ayesha telephoned anonymously and wanted advice on bullying and harassment as she felt she had been excluded from her study group.

Ayesha was advised to speak to her tutor and/or consider confidential counselling or confidential harassment counselling which the Listening Ear was able to arrange for her.

Jamal was feeling lonely, low and that everything was getting a bit too much.  The Listening Ear arranged regular meetings with him, and knowing there was someone for him to talk to, helped Jamal feel less lonely and stressed.

The Listening Ear helped Jamal to plan his study and leisure time and to seek help from Student Finance - where he realised he did not have to pay his student loan back until he was employed and earning a certain amount of money.

Olayinka discussed her emotions around choosing the wrong course. Her Listening Ear referred her to the Guidance & Employability Team who discussed her concerns about the course and who she could speak to for further support and advice.

Jack had achieved a 2:1 but felt he had missed out on a First. He was reassured he would be able to get onto the Masters programme with his significant achievement. Jack was able to develop a more positive perspective on his result.