Skip to main content

Supporting our community during global crises

Global crises such as conflict, natural disasters and humanitarian emergencies can have a profound impact on members of our University community.

At Norwich University of the Arts, we recognise that students, colleagues, and their families may be directly or indirectly affected by events happening around the world. We aim to provide practical support, guidance and a compassionate environment for anyone affected.

This page brings together information about the support available across the University and how members of our community can help each other during difficult times.

If you are affected by a global crisis, please reach out for support. We are here to help.

Public responses during global crises

At times, global events prompt requests for the University to make a public statement or respond as an institution. While we recognise the seriousness of these situations and the concerns they raise, as an academic institution the University does not as a matter of course take positions on the political dimensions of international conflicts or crises. Instead, our priority is to focus on supporting members of our community who may be affected and ensuring that our campus remains a respectful and supportive environment for all.

Our commitment as a University

Norwich University of the Arts is committed to fostering a safe and respectful environment for people from all backgrounds.

In times of international crisis we aim to:

  • Provide compassionate support for students and colleagues who may be affected
  • Maintain a respectful campus environment for discussion and dialogue
  • Ensure incidents of discrimination, harassment or abuse are taken seriously

Freedom of expression

The University is committed to protecting freedom of expression within the law for both staff and students. Members of our community may hold a wide range of perspectives on international conflicts and global crises, and the University supports their right to express and discuss these views in lawful and respectful ways.

At times of global crisis, members of our community may choose to organise or take part in vigils, demonstrations or other peaceful gatherings to show solidarity or share their views. The University respects the right of individuals to participate in such activities, provided they take place within the law and in accordance with University policies, while maintaining a safe and respectful environment for everyone on campus.

Support available

If you are a student whose life or studies are being affected by a global crisis, we encourage you to contact the relevant support services so we can understand your situation and help you access the support available as follows:

If your studies are being impacted, please let your academic department know as early as possible so we can support you.

If you are affected, please speak with your line manager in the first instance so that appropriate support or adjustments can be considered.

  • Employee wellbeing support
    Counselling and confidential support is available to most of our colleagues through our dedicated Employee Assistance Programme, which is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year. Further information is available on our Employee Assistance Programme intranet page.
    If you have yet to sign up to our EAP please contact humanresources@norwichuni.ac.uk for further assistance. (Student workers should access the student support arrangements.)
  • Practical support and guidance
    Our Human Resources team can help colleagues to identify the support available and can be contacted via humanresources@norwichuni.ac.uk
  • Special  leave and flexible working
    Information about special leave and flexible working are available in our Family Leave and Flexible Working  policies on our HR Policies  and Procedures intranet page,
  • Harassment and discrimination
    Colleagues should report incidents of harassment or discrimination to Human Resources

You may encounter students or colleagues who are affected by international crises.

You can help by:

  • Checking in with students or colleagues.
  • Being aware of the support services available across the University
  • Raising awareness of support available with students and colleagues
  • Signposting individuals to the support services identified in this guidance.
  • Being flexible and understanding where appropriate

Dealing with these conversations sensitively and how to signpost appropriately is covered in the Student Support training for all staff, which you can access on the VLE.

How our University community can help

Many members of our University community may wish to support those affected by humanitarian crises.

You can help by:

  • Being aware of global events and how they may affect classmates or colleagues
  • Showing respect, compassion and cultural sensitivity
  • Reporting and responding to discrimination, harassment or hate incidents

Some colleagues and students may also personally wish to support charitable or fundraising initiatives.

Contacting Student Support

Current students can attend one of our drop-in sessions in Student Support reception in Bank Plain (behind the canteen) or you can email us.

The Student Support office is open all year round for appointments and to take telephone and email enquiries. We run a drop-in service, dates and times are available on our Intranet.

Get in touch via OurNorwichUni

Email Make a report (opens in a new window) Call +44 (0) 1603 977977

Latest News

View all news
Student