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Over nine million people in the UK – more than the population of London – report they are always or often lonely. So you're not alone if you feel alone.

Loneliness is nothing to be ashamed of. It's possible to be surrounded by people but feel isolated. It can begin when you move away from home to study at University, if you're studying a subject that your friends and family don't understand or value, or when you feel that no-one understands you or the problems you're facing. Sometimes it can be hard to find the confidence to approach other people.

The good news is that University is here to support you to connect with other people. We offer a number of services that may be able to help. Once you've gained a little confidence, campus offers a wonderful range of opportunities to meet people who share your interests.

Structured Support

Sometimes structured support is needed to help you deal with the underlying causes of loneliness. The university has staff on hand to help, a successful peer mentoring scheme, or you can contact your GP for advice.

Counselling Service and CBT Therapy

If you feel you need professional support, the university's Counselling Service is available. Our fully qualified Counsellor offers free and confidential support. This service is particularly useful if you're seeking short term support for homesickness, or want to speak to someone who isn't involved in your personal life or academic work.  

Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) may be available if you have anxiety, low mood, anger, low self-esteem or other issues that would benefit from therapy that helps you manage your problems by changing the way you think and behave. 

To find out more about the Counselling Service and CBT Therapy, please visit our Life Lounge webpage.

Peer Mentoring

Peer Mentoring is all about students supporting each other. During your first year at university, our trained student mentors can offer you additional one-to-one personal support to help you settle into your studies and succeed in higher education. More information is available from our Peer Mentoring webpage or please see the Student Services

Self-help

If you are seeking structured ways to meet people, build your confidence and perhaps even learn new skills, then campus offers many opportunities.

Volunteering

Spending some of your time doing something that benefits someone else, the local community or the environment can be a fantastic way to meet new people. Contact our Volunteering Co-ordinator by emailing volunteering@bolton.ac.uk or calling 01204 903489.

Students' Union

Perhaps the most famous way to meet people on campus is through the Students' Union. In particular, they support a wide range of societies and sports clubs. You can find the Students' Union office in Chancellor's Mall.

Chaplaincy

Our Chaplaincy is home to Chaplains and Pastoral Assistants from different traditions, faiths and world-views. They offer friendship and support and can help you explore beliefs and values. You can find the Chaplaincy in Chancellor's Mall, or email chaplain@bolton.ac.uk