A statement on the escalation in global violence, political instability and ongoing military unrest - and the support available to you as a student
We would like to acknowledge over the past week, and particularly this weekend, we have seen a significant escalation in violence, political instability and ongoing military unrest across several parts of the world.
Many students, staff and alumni within the Queen Mary community have close personal, family, and cultural ties to countries including Afghanistan, Bahrain, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, USA, UAE, Pakistan, Sudan, Israel and Palestine.
Many of us may have woken up to distressing news, uncertainty about loved ones, disrupted travel plans, or an overwhelming and often conflicting flow of information online.
We also recognise that several other ongoing conflicts, violence and humanitarian crises continue to cause profound harm, uncertainty and worry for members of our community. These include but are not limited to situations affecting Palestine, Kurdistan, Democratic Republic of Congo, Yemen, Myanmar, Haiti, Syria, Libya, Somalia, Central African Republic, Ukraine and Russia, among many others. These continue to deeply affect members of our community. We stand by everyone impacted and encourage you to access the support available (see below).
Moments like these can feel deeply personal and emotionally heavy, even when events are happening far away. Feelings of anxiety, grief, anger, distraction, or helplessness are entirely valid and international crises can have a very real impact on wellbeing, academic focus and daily life. Our community is global, diverse, and interconnected, and we want to recognise the weight that many may be carrying at this time.
During this period, we encourage everyone to prioritise their wellbeing and to engage with information thoughtfully. Please rely on trusted and verified news sources, be mindful of misinformation circulating online, and engage respectfully and with care with one another. People may process events differently based on their personal experiences and identities. Compassion and understanding towards one another are especially important right now.
If you have friends or peers who may be impacted, please consider checking in with them. Small acts of care and solidarity can make such a meaningful difference.
As your elected student representatives, we will continue our ongoing conversations within the Students' Union and with the University to ensure student wellbeing remains a priority during this time.
If you are personally affected or finding things difficult, support is available. Please do not hesitate to reach out to one of the support services listed below.
Extenuating Circumstances
If you feel you have been affected by these crises and your ability to prepare for your assessments is being impacted, you should apply for extenuating circumstances from your respective academic schools. Further information on Extenuating Circumstances and other forms of student support can be found on the .
The Students’ Union can provide additional independent support, including advice on extenuating circumstances, through the
Advice & Support
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24-hour Wellbeing Line (while university services are closed): 0800 028 3766
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QMSU Academic Advice Service
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Your Head of Year or Academic Adviser
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A trusted friend, peer, or family member
From Your Executive Officers