Standing in Solidarity: Supporting Students Affected by the Gaza Crisis

As you may know, the crisis in Gaza is deeply impacting over 80 Palestinian students who are eager to pursue their studies in the UK. Currently, they are trapped in Gaza, unable to leave due to the strict UK biometric visa requirements. With no functioning visa centres in Gaza and no safe routes to neighbouring countries, these students are being unjustly prevented from taking their rightful places at university. 

Though we are not aware of any students here at DMU who are in Gaza and directly impacted by these restrictions, we understand that many of you may still be deeply affected. Whether it's through family or cultural ties, your own personal experiences, or a genuine compassion for the suffering of others—this situation touches all of us in some way. It is a stark reminder of the fragile human lives caught in the midst of this turmoil, stirring our shared sense of empathy and solidarity. 

At DSU, we genuinely want to make sure that every student who feels this impact knows that the support you deserve is completely within your reach. 

Looking after your wellbeing: 

If recent events have left you feeling anxious, upset, or distressed, please know you are not alone. There are caring places and compassionate people ready to listen and support you through these difficult times. 

General Support at DMU & DSU 

• DMU Wellbeing Services  

• Confidential support for your emotional, mental, and physical wellbeing, including counselling, mental health support, and disability advice. 

• DSU Advice  

• Free confidential and independent service for current DMU students with a team of advisers able to help with a range of welfare and academic queries 

• Academic Tutor 

• Your Academic Tutor is the first point of contact for academic guidance. If you feel your studies are being impacted by this situation, please contact them. 

International Student Support 

• DMU International Student Support 

Cultural & Community Support 

• DMU Muslim Chaplaincy Services 

• De Montfort University (DMU) offers students and staff a dedicated Muslim Prayer Rooms for prayers and reflection, ablution facilities and support from our Imam and Muslim Chaplain in the Portland Building. 

• Multi-faith Chaplaincy 

• DMU provides multi-faith prayer spaces and a team of volunteer faith advisors who can offer spiritual support and pastoral care. 

Mental health & Crisis services 

• If you need out of hours/crisis support, please contact the below services: 

• Samaritans: 116 123 (free, 24/7 crisis hotline) 

• Shout: Text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258 (free, 24/7 confidential and anonymous text support) 

Staying informed without feeling overwhelmed 

It is easy to feel weighed down by constant news updates. If you’re finding it all a bit much: 

• Take breaks from social media 

• Stick to credible, trustworthy news sources 

• Remember: it is okay to set boundaries on how much you engage with the news 

While no DMU students are currently directly affected by the Gaza crisis, we genuinely understand how such global events can touch us all on a very personal level. The Students’ Union are wholeheartedly dedicated to fostering a safe, compassionate space where every student can find genuine support; whether through wellbeing services, community networks, chaplaincy, or peer connections. No one should ever feel they have to face their struggles alone, help is always within reach, and reaching out is a true act of strength. Together, let’s keep compassion and solidarity at the very heart of our campus community, reminding us all of our shared care and resilience. 

Your Student Voice Leaders  

studentvoiceleaders@dmu.ac.uk