Internal University-wide support for doctoral researchers

All doctoral researchers can access the support available from the University’s excellent Student Services department. For instance, this includes Counselling, Disability Support, Mental Health Support, Study Support, Academic and Practical Support, English Language Support, Student Advice and Support (e.g. finance, visas and housing), Security, Faith and Spirituality, and more.

Please note that we encourage doctoral researchers to access University support in the first instance if concerns stem from aspects of their doctoral programme/have an impact on progression etc.

The Doctoral College has paid for all doctoral researchers to access the Employee Assistance Programme (trusted by 50,000+ client companies). Provided by Health Assured, the EAP provides confidential, unlimited support on any matters that might be of concern including mental health, relationships and money matters. The service is free and available 24 hours a day, both online and over the phone. The site has an extensive library of guides, podcasts, planners and more, and the service is also available to immediate family members, should they need it. Their 24/7 confidential helpline can be reached by calling 0800 030 5182 and there is a helpful guide detailing the process when calling. 

Log-in details for the EAP:

• Username: University
• Password: PhD

This resource contains a section dedicated to doctoral wellbeing that includes recordings and/or resources from some of our Doctoral Wellbeing Week sessions such as:

• 'Beating imposter syndrome'
• 'Fuelling your research'
• 'Getting to grips with housing'
• 'Mindfulness for study'
• 'Sleep management'

Services offered through the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) can also be found the ‘Wisdom’ app, as we understand that information should be available in a suitable way for you, whenever you require it.

The app is available to download for free on Google Play and the App Store by searching ‘Wisdom', then select 'Wisdom: Learn, Grow, Thrive'. Once it has downloaded, open the app to complete the sign-up details. You will be asked to input a code, which is MHA119084.

From simple lifestyle changes to advice for many of life's most common concerns, the portal offers:

• Interactive health assessment providing personal tailor-made dietary tips and fitness plans
• Fitness and lifestyle advice, such as detoxing methods
• Four week self-help programmes
• Mini health checks
• Financial wellbeing articles

App Store for Apple iOS devices

Google Play for Android devices

Each Academic School at Loughborough has a Wellbeing Adviser who can offer advice and support to students on a wide range of wellbeing-related issues, such as:

• Stress
• Low mood
• Bereavement
• Family issues
• Relationship issues
• Feeling overwhelmed

Wellbeing Advisors may be able to support a student with other issues which are not outlined above so please contact the Wellbeing Adviser for your school if you are unsure.

LSU Advice provides free, independent, confidential and non-judgemental advice for taught students and doctoral researchers at both the Loughborough and London campus. We have a team of 4 specially trained advisors who can support students through difficult times with their studies and advise on both informal and informal ways forward.

Numerous Loughborough University staff across both campuses are trained in Mental Health First Aid.

MHFAiders are trained to listen, reassure and respond, even in a crisis – and can potentially avert a crisis from happening. They can do this by recognising warning signs, and they have the skills and confidence to approach and support someone experiencing mental ill-health.

MHFAiders also have a role in supporting positive wellbeing and tackling stigma. Contact your School to find out who is a Mental Health First Aider.

Many members of the University are now working remotely to continue delivering their work during the Coronavirus outbreak. Some individuals will have had to change how they deliver their work, and for others it will simply mean working in a different location to the office. The move from office working to home working is not always a simple transition though. This support page has been created to provide you with advice and guidance to make the adjustment easier and ensure that while you’re working from home, you’re healthy, happy and productive.

The PhD Social & Support Network is organised and run by fellow doctoral researchers at different stages of their PhD journey. The network is passionate about supporting researchers through the multitude of non-academic issues, which may be faced during the PhD journey. Although they are not a counselling service, they can provide a supportive welcoming space atmosphere and signpost support as appropriate.