Support to Study
We want to ensure that students who are struggling due to their health are given all reasonable support to complete their studies. If you are disabled, have a mental health condition or other long-term health problem, the University may have a legal obligation to make ‘reasonable adjustments’ to support you.
The University is committed to supporting students' wellbeing, and have implemented a Support to Study Policy. The policy should ensure that University staff work with you to check that you’re managing, and to make sure you’re getting the support you need.
The University defines Support to Study as a student’s ability to participate fully and successfully as a student, in relation to their academic studies, life generally at the University and how they interact with others across our community.
How do I benefit from the policy:
This policy is here to make sure you get the right support if physical or mental health difficulties are affecting your studies or student life. The University is committed to taking a positive, understanding, and supportive approach to your wellbeing, helping you feel safe and confident to continue your course.
The policy is designed to explore reasonable adjustments, access any available disability funding, and involve specialist or external support services where helpful. The policy also sets out clear and fair steps for staff and students if concerns arise about your wellbeing or behaviour, especially in situations where formal disciplinary or fitness to practise procedures are not appropriate. Early support and open communication are encouraged so that challenges can be addressed in a coordinated and sensitive way.
What support can I get?
If you believe you’ve a long-term physical or mental health problem that affects your studies, contact the University’s Student Wellbeing Service. They can advise on support and adjustments, and on the Disabled Students’ Allowance if you’re eligible.
The University Chaplaincy Team are here for all students, whether or not you’re a believer, and offer confidential and non-judgmental support.
The Students’ Union Advice Service offers free, independent and confidential advice which is open to all students at all levels.
What happens if I get called in for a meeting?
First, no-one should ask you to come for a meeting without explaining why they’re setting up a meeting. If you are not satisfied with the explanation, or you haven’t been given reasons, then please contact the Students’ Union for additional advice and guidance.
The Support to Study Policy gives the detail on the 3 levels of meetings that are possible. The aim is to work with students informally, and by agreement wherever possible. You should be told why the meeting is happening, and have the chance to explain whether or not you agree that there’s a problem. You should be consulted on your needs and wishes, and ideally agree an action plan to help manage your situation. If there’s no agreement, or if students don’t attend the meeting, the policy allows the University to escalate the matter Panels which will review your case history.
You have the right to be accompanied by a Students’ Union adviser if you wish at all levels. Alternatively, if you have a support worker already (for example, a social worker, or an advocate from a mental health service) you can ask the University to allow them to accompany you or to represent you. The University will not permit legal representation at University meetings.
What if I disagree with a decision that I’m not fit to study, or I disagree with the University’s suggestions?
Students can appeal any decision made by the Support to Study procedures at stage 1 or 2. If this is a process you wish to engage with, contact our advice service for further guidance and information.
What if I’m unhappy with the level of support I’ve been given?
If you’re not satisfied with service you’ve received from the University, you have the right to complain. If this is a process you wish to engage with, contact our advice service for further guidance and information. Can also link to the complaints page when it is added back in.
If you are an International student and you are not well enough for the time being to continue your studies, it may affect your Student Visa. You or your family should contact the International Student Advice Service at the University for further information.
If you depend on funding from the Student Loans Company, contact the University Student Finance team for information. You may be eligible for repeat funding if you need to repeat a year of study later. If you’re a Home student and in financial hardship, speak to Student Finance or the Students’ Union Advice Service to check if you can get discretionary funding from the University.
Concerning your studies, the University should agree a provisional date to review if you are fit to return. University regulations expect students to complete studies within 5 years, or their studies may be terminated. Consult your Tutor or your Programme Leader on whether this time limit can be extended if you need to interrupt due to your health, and get independent advice if in doubt.
Useful links
University of Greenwich Support to Study Policy
Support to Study Policy and Procedures | Documents | University of Greenwich
Greenwich Students' Union
greenwichsu.co.uk/advice
Medway Advice Service
http://thehubmedway.co.uk/advice
Get in touch
If you need any further help and support, please get in touch with the advice service by completing our contact form here.
Correct as of March 2025