Health services
It's important to check out health services, particularly if you have a long term mental health and/or physical health condition.
A few universities have health care services on campus, which can mean that it's easier to access appointments with staff who understand student life, and requirements in terms of providing medical notes for absence. Some have seconded staff from the NHS, such as Mental Health Nurses.
The majority of universities will expect students to register with a local GP and to access local health services. Unfortunately, due to funding, and geographical differences, there can be long waiting times. This is especially true for any diagnostic services e.g. Autism/ADHD, or specialist Mental Health services for eating disorders or access to Dialectical Behaviour Therapy.
Mental Health Advisers may be able to refer you into local NHS services, although this is becoming more difficult as thresholds for support are increasing. They should be able to give you advice about this, and also local waiting times - this is something you could ask about at a university Open Day.
Transferring care
If you have existing care or support from statutory services, such as the NHS or Social Services, please speak to your local team as soon as possible. Transferring care can take a long time!
You can read more about this on our webpage about getting ready to start uni..
