Students at York University are very lucky in that they have a multitude of different welfare services to choose from once they realise that they need to talk to someone about particular issues, or need to make a query about something. This includes academic supervisors, college deans, the counselling service, the student support services, etc, etc. There is also the Students' Union, which promises to be wholly student orientated, and to represent student views - whilst largely the university funds it, it is not afraid to take the sides of students against the university. This presents the student with a lucky choice, choose to visit one of the superb university welfare services, or visit their own student-based welfare service.

The Academic & Welfare service is based in the Student Centre, Goodricke College and is open primarily Mondays to Fridays, 10.30am to 2.30pm (though assistance can be available earlier or later within sensible office hours!). Whilst it sounds officious, it really is only two very dedicated workers who just want to do their best for the welfare of students. One is the student-elected sabbatical officer, who holds the post for one year, usually just after graduating. The other is a permanent worker who has years of experience working with students. This means that you have someone who knows what it's like to be a recent student, and someone who is professionally qualified. Plus, they love to talk to students! Approachability is the key, and these two workers will try their best to make you feel comfortable, and find a solution that doesn't leave you going home empty-handed. Even if you don't want to visit the centre physically, we always respond to emails sent to welfare@yusu.org.

Some of the things you might want to visit us about: security advice, free condoms, free pregnancy tests, academic appeals, disciplinary hearings, listening support, general welfare information, childcare support, accommodation information, emergency hardship fund, sexual health advice, mental health advice, and much more!

We also run campaigns on a variety of different academic and welfare issues, so if you have any good ideas then feel free to email edwelf@yusu.org.

Education & Welfare Officer (the student one): Neil Barnes

Academic & Welfare Co-ordinator (the permanent one): Mel Nichol

Emails sent to welfare@yusu.org will normally go to Mel, though if you want to contact Neil directly then email edwelf@yusu.org.

Tel no: 01904 433485

Based in the Student Centre, Goodricke College

Open Mondays to Fridays, 10.30am to 2.30pm