Disability and Neurodiversity Team

Provides specialist support for disabled and neurodiverse students across all programs.

Services include:

  • Advice and guidance
  • Study Inclusion Plans (SIPs) and exam arrangements
  • Access to assistive software/equipment
  • Referrals to other services (Wellbeing, Accommodation, Library)
  • Help with self-help tools (apps, websites)
  • Support for health-related study difficulties
  • Learning Advisers for study strategies (for students with SpLDs)
  • Assistance with Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) applications
  • Availability: 9am–5pm, Monday to Friday

Mental Health and Wellbeing Service

Confidential, trauma-informed support for academic, personal, and professional wellbeing.

Services include:

  • One-to-one sessions, groups, workshops (online/in person)
  • Therapists trained in CBT, EMDR, CRM, CFT, psychodynamic therapy, yoga
  • Brief therapy tailored for Higher Education context
  • Specialist support for Black and international students
  • Partnerships with external organisations (RASASC, Advent Advocacy, Survivors UK)
  • Access to TalkCampus (24/7 peer support) and Spectrum.Life Student Assistance Programme (24/7 counselling)
  • Availability: 9am–5pm for SOAS services; 24/7 via Spectrum Life

Student Advice Service

Free, confidential guidance on immigration, finance, and accommodation for applicants and enrolled students.

Services include:

  • Immigration: Visa applications, eligibility, conditions, and post-study options
  • Finance: Student loans, budgeting, hardship funds, state benefits
  • Accommodation: SOAS halls, private accommodation, legal advice for housing
  • Availability: 9am–5pm, Monday to Friday

Multi-Faith Chaplaincy

Inclusive spiritual and pastoral support for all students and staff.

Services include:

  • One-to-one spiritual or pastoral guidance
  • Connection with local faith communities
  • Safe space for reflection and personal growth
  • Support for all faiths and non-religious individuals
  • Availability: 9am–5pm, Monday to Friday

Support Officers

First point of contact for SAaW services.

Services include:

  • Guidance on accessing support for mental health, disability, immigration, finance, accommodation, and faith
  • Appointment booking and process guidance
  • Wellbeing events, workshops, campaigns
  • Signposting to specialist teams
  • Availability: 9am–5pm, Monday to Friday

Emergencies

  • Call 999 for emergencies; 111 for urgent non-life-threatening help
  • Out-of-hours wellbeing support via Student Assistance Programme: 0800 031 8227
  • SOAS Wellbeing services: 9am–5pm, Lower Ground Floor, Paul Webley Wing; phone 0207 074 5015; email studentadviceandwellbeing@soas.ac.uk

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