Congratulations, you've made it through the first term! Make sure you get the most out of your time off by looking after yourself and your personal belongings this festive season.

Protecting your property

An empty house is an easy target for would be burglars. Before you go, make sure you:

• Check all your windows and doors, take your valuables home with you or hide them out of sight
• Ask someone you trust to keep an eye on the property if possible, get them to check no mail is left hanging out of the mailbox
• Close the ground floor curtains
• If you have the technology, have the lights in the house come on at set times

If you get a new mobile device for Christmas, or you change your telephone number over the holidays, remember to authenticate access to your Microsoft Security page before disposing of your old device. This will ensure that when you return after the Christmas break, you will receive Multi-Factor Authentication text notifications to the correct device and be able to sign-in and access Office 365 services. 

Please bear in mind that if you experience any difficulties changing your Multi-Factor Authentication details, IT Services will be closed for the Christmas vacation, returning on Tuesday 4th January should you need to access IT support.

Getting home

If you are planning to travel home or to another address in Wales or the UK for the festive season, you are encouraged to take a lateral flow test before you travel. For international students or students travelling abroad, please remember to check the travel guidance for the country that you will be travelling to.

If you’re driving home for Christmas, make sure you’ve checked your car before you go (fluid levels, petrol, tyres). The weather at this time of year is unpredictable; make sure you pack a drink and some non-perishables as well as a blanket.

Partying

Christmas is a time to relax - especially as you have been studying hard for the past few months. It’s normal to look forward to spending time with friends and family to celebrate. If you are going on a night out, know where you’re going, how you’re getting there and who you’re meeting. Respect those around you – it’s their right to have a good time too.

For your own safety:

• Stay in well-lit areas if walking. Never walk home alone.
• Always stay with your group while out. Do not wander off on your own and make sure your friends don’t either.
• Always book a reputable taxi home.
• Never leave your drink, bag or phone unattended.

For others’ safety:

• If you or your friends have had too much to drink – take yourselves home.
• If you see something that appears wrong, call the police or venue security for support. 
  
• Respect the decisions of those who choose not to drink alcohol and do not put pressure on them to do so.
• Understand and educate your friends on the importance of consent.

Finding Support

For all the fun and festivities of the holiday season, for many it can be a time of loneliness or anxiety. If you find Christmas difficult, remember to:

• Prioritise whatever it is that will help you relax and feel calm
• Allow yourself the time and space you need
• If you can, be honest with the people around you
• Let others know how they can look after you best this Christmas

The Wellbeing Services’ Self-Help page provides a number of useful resources for more information, advice and support during the festive season.

Student Space is a trusted place to access confidential support via text, phone, email and webchat and explore useful resources. Visit The Christmas break, where you can find a range of articles to help you think about, plan for and manage the end of term.

Enjoy the downtime

Finally, be proud of everything you have achieved this term and remember to set aside some time to rest and recuperate before the New Year.

You can find more safety advice that applies to all seasons on the Student Safety webpages.