Quote of The Day:
Every day may not be good, but there is something good in every day – Alice Morse Earle, American historian and author.
Hello everyone!
I hope you’ve been well. As we are halfway through this term, I know that a lot of you may have settled into a routine. No two days have been the same this year (and I mean that literally!) but know that faith is what often keeps us going. It is hard to believe that good times will come soon during these difficult times, but I am here to reassure that they will. And the best part is, no matter how alone you feel, and no matter how isolated you feel, know that you are not alone. Always feel free to reach out to the stranger across the hall or strike a conversation with the person who hands you your morning coffee. You never know who needs that conversation more so it’s a lot more important now than ever to do that. Apart from that, here are a couple of things that I have been up to these past 2 weeks:
Wellbeing Assessor Interviews:
As part of the University’s approach to make mental health a priority this year, I sat on the interview panel for 2 additional Wellbeing Assessors. I am happy to report that 2 new assessors will be joining the team in 3 months. The aim of this recruitment process is to ensure that there are fewer waiting times when students are accessing services in SWIS.
Signposting Training:
Another successful signposting training session was delivered last week. I would encourage all students to contact V-Team in order to book a session. The session allows you to gain a deeper insight into the work that SWIS and SU Advice do. It also provides an opportunity for you to have better signposting skills when an acquaintance, colleague or friend comes forward and needs assistance. Plus, it gives you an opportunity to ask me any burning questions you may have! ?
Accommodation Brochure:
I am working with SWIS and our Disabilities Officer, Charlie Cooke, to roll out a new accommodation brochure for individuals with disabilities. This will allow prospective students to understand the multiple options they will have when the start their studies at University. I believe that this is a step in the right direction to ensure that students are well-informed before making an important decision. We are hoping to get this released by the end of the term.
Apart from that, please feel free to contact me at vpwelfare@essex.ac.uk if you have anything you’d like to discuss.
Love
Vinnie
Your VP Welfare