Staying with us this Christmas

This has been a year like no other. The challenges created because of Covid-19 have meant big changes in almost every aspect of our everyday lives. How we are preparing for Christmas this year is no exception. While many students will be heading home this week, we know that thousands of students – for many different reasons – will be staying put over the festive season. We’ve got support on hand, and tips for keeping entertained over the holiday period. We’ll be diving into some of these ourselves!

Stay in touch

We’d love for you to let us know if you’re staying with us over the break so we can keep in touch. Your site team will still be on hand and on site around the clock, offering all the support and service that our students need. Drop your site team a note, you can find their details here.

Let us entertain you

We’ve got lots going on in our Homegrown Hobbies series and iQ Clubs this festive season and you can join in by following us on social. From making Christmas drinks, to festive cooking classes with the iQ Supper Club and iQ Book Club reviews with Leah Turner, we’ve got lots of activities to get involved in over the holidays. We hope you can be part of the fun.

Get some Headspace

Thousands of studies have shown mindfulness meditation can positively impact mental and physical health. Whether it’s by reducing stress, increasing focus, or improving relationships, research shows mindfulness works. We’ve teamed up with Headspace to offer iQ residents a year’s free premium subscription to their app – it might just change your life!

Embrace. Explore. Do.

Our approach to wellbeing offers something for everyone. There’s plenty you can embrace, many activities to explore and lots of things you can do which will benefit you and others – it’s all about the wellbeing of our iQ community. You can explore an ever-evolving world of creativity, crafts, food and fitness on our Instagram, and get inspired to try something new. You could even volunteer for a good cause through our partnership with Ethical Angel – great for your CV and your soul. Visit our wellbeing page to find out more.

Look after yourself

We know that for some, Christmas can be a difficult time of year. There are sources of support and information that can help, such as your university welfare team or Every Mind Matters. Our partner Relate, the UK’s largest relationship charity, has posted tips on keeping relationships healthy during self-isolation and social distancing.

And, if you need any support with your mental health, you can get in touch with your university welfare team or contact SHOUT, a free support text line. The service is confidential and can be accessed anywhere, at any time. Simply text “SHOUT” to 85258 to have a conversation with one of their trained volunteers.

You can also find the latest government advice and practical tips on our Update Centre, and information on what we are doing to keep residents safe by visiting Safe, Welcoming Homes.

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