When you hear figures like this, it's easy to see why mental health is such an important topic to talk about and we at Clever want to make this much easier for our students.
So what can Clever do to help?
New to 2021, our staff member Emma be taking on the role of Marketing and Welfare Officer, providing a 'Welfare Drop-In Service'.
See what she has to say below:
"Although I am not a qualified counsellor, I am a qualified helper, simultaneously working towards a full counselling accreditation. This means that our time will be safe, ethical and in a confidential space, where any accommodation welfare issues you may be experiencing can be voiced and together, resolution can be worked towards. I'm hoping my time in this role will constantly be evolving, so any feedback on how this service can be better utilised will always be welcome! We really want to team up with your education providers too, to ensure all our Clever students are kept in the loop!"
We've decided to offer this service to our students for a multitude of reasons.
With everything that 2020 chucked our way, it's safe to say it has been a challenging few years for many. Readjusting to less restrictions, classes in person again and social situations can be incredibly overwhelming, especially after 18 months of minimal contact. Add in moving house, potentially with new housemates, or household issues cropping up, finding someone to talk to can be incredibly beneficial.
It's important to us that you have a wonderful student experience and a huge part of that starts in the home! Once we've found your perfect accommodation, we don't just want to say goodbye, we want to make sure you love your time there too.
The drop-ins will be half an hour time slots, booked in advance, where any of our students can come and have a chat with Emma. Whatever the issue, big or small, we can work through it together!
Whether you're having welfare concerns about a housemate, concerns for your own welfare and how it is impacting your time in the property, or household arguments that have cropped up…let's talk it out. To make the process even easier, if face-to-face makes you uncomfortable, a phone call can be organised instead.
If this sounds like something you want to try, or could benefit from, then please reach out! You can do so by following our step-by-step guide below:
Step 1: Complete our initial online questionnaire. Terms and conditions apply and will need to be agreed before progression.
Step 2: Book a timeslot - an online calendar will be emailed to you. There will be pre-approved, half an hour slots available. It is one per person, upon booking.
Step 3: Drop-in time!
Step 4: Book a follow up if needed.
Don't forget, if you're looking for accommodation, you can use our online portal!
By Emma Thomas