Mental Health Support
Your wellbeing matters. Everyone’s journey is unique, but rest assured. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
Your helping hand
We know that college life can be exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming at times. Whether you’re adjusting to a new environment, managing coursework, or facing personal challenges, you’re never alone at Taunton College.
Our dedicated Health & Wellbeing Team is here to help you take care of your mental and physical health, so you can thrive during your time at college and beyond.
You’re not alone
Whether you need mental health support, someone to talk to, or guidance around physical or emotional wellbeing, we offer the help you need, when you need it.
Your wellbeing matters. Let us help you take care of it.
What Support is Available?
The Wellbeing Team
Trained Wellbeing Officers are based at all institutions in the UCS College Group. They offer a safe, confidential space to talk. Whatever you’re dealing with, we’re here for you.
They can also signpost you to other teams in college such as:
- The College Counselling Service (CCS)
- Financial support and advice
- Academic Coaches
- Careers advice
- Trusted external support services.
Contact us: tauntonwellbeing@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk
Kooth – Online Mental Health Support
We recommend Kooth: a free, online wellbeing platform offering anonymous, professional support, discussion boards, and self-help tools.
Visit: www.kooth.com
Counselling Support
Sometimes talking to a counsellor can really help. We offer a flexible, confidential, and accessible counselling service.
Counselling can support you with everything from anger management to self-esteem issues, not to mention everything and anything in-between. They are always here to help you out, and if you ever feel the need you can contact the Counselling Team directly or speak to the Wellbeing Team to arrange a referral.
Physical Wellbeing
Looking after your body is just as important as looking after your mind. We offer:
- Stop smoking support
- Advice on diet and nutrition
- Stress and sleep support
- Drug and alcohol guidance
- Confidential sexual health advice.
Multi-Faith & Chaplaincy Support
We welcome students from all faiths and none. Our college has a dedicated Chaplain and multi-faith space, which provides a peaceful place for reflection and support.
Our Chaplains lead calendar events such as Remembrance Day and are always available for a chat or support with your spiritual and general wellbeing.
A safe, respectful community
We are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for everyone. We have zero tolerance for bullying, harassment, racism, sexual harassment, inappropriate “banter” or discrimination of any kind.
If you experience or witness something that doesn’t feel right, please speak up. We will always listen, and we will take action.
Frequently Asked Questions
That’s OK! Our online Career Coach tool is designed to help establish some potential career options by matching up your interests with pathways and study programmes.
Alternatively, we recommend that you talk to a Careers Teacher or a member of our School Liaisons team whenever they get a chance – our School Liasion team frequently visit schools in our local area, and every school should have a designated Careers lead for help on what to do after 16.
Our Information & Advice team are happy to help and discuss options, contactable via email at info@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk or by telephone at 01278 455464. The Department for Education’s Exam Results Helpline is another option to consider.
You can always speak to your School’s Careers Teacher if you need assistance. As a first point of contact, they are trained to ensure your young person takes positive steps into further education and as a general sense of direction of where to go next.
Our School Liasion Team works closely with Schools’ Careers Teams and/or contacts, and may have already met your young person! They can offer bespoke, tailored advice to your young person about starting at college.
Finally, contact our Information & Advice Team on either 01278 441234, or at info@ucscollegegroup.ac.uk.
Yes, our Chaplain supports students and staff with faith and non-faith needs, offering spaces for worship and/or reflection.
Helpful information
Financial Support
We understand that managing money while studying can feel overwhelming, especially right now. That’s why we offer a wide range of financial support to help you succeed, whatever your circumstances.
Accommodation
With priority access given to students studying a land-based course, a specialist subject, or a Higher Education programme, our halls of residence at Taunton and Cannington provide a welcoming home.
Term Dates
Planning ahead? Our academic calendar includes key term dates, bank holidays,
scheduled breaks, and Somerset school holiday alignment, so you can stay informed and
organised throughout the year.