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Health and Welfare

Student health and welfare is a top priority at Somerville, and the level of pastoral support is high. Many College staff play a part in ensuring student well-being, including the College Doctor, (Dr Helen Steele). Either the College Doctor or Nurse will be available each day from 1-2pm in Darbishire 16.

All students have a Personal Tutor with whom they can discuss any problems, both academic and personal. The Senior Tutor and staff in the Academic Office can offer advice and practical support. In addition, each student has an annual meeting with the Principal, which is an opportunity to discuss academic and non-academic matters alike.

Somerville students are generally very supportive of each other. The JCR Welfare Officers’ doors are always open to students with any sort of problem, as are the Peer Supporters' (who are trained by the University Counselling Service).

The Dean and the two Junior Deans oversee student welfare and non-academic discipline. They are available to provide guidance and support, and to ensure that the needs and interests of the College, and of all the College members, are respected. The Deans' Hour takes place every Wednesday in full term (Maitland 2, 13:00-14:00) and is an opportunity for the Deans to meet individual students to discuss any disciplinary or welfare matters that arise. The Deans Regulations and Decanal Disciplinary Procedure explain students' obligations as members of the College community.

The Junior Deans live in college, and one of them is on call every evening, night and weekend during full term. They are available to support students with problems in areas including (but not limited to) relationships, anxiety, stress, physical ill health, mental health, and worries about academic work.