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

Getting home

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.

Rail providers are advising that a number of routes will be affected by planned industrial action on 13-14, 16-17, 24-27 December and 3-4, 6-7 January. Transport for Wales are advising customers not to travel by train on these dates as the majority of rail services across the Wales and Borders network will be suspended.​​​​​​​

For international students or students travelling abroad, please remember to check travel guidance and mask-wearing requirements for the country that you will be travelling to.

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.

• 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
• 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 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

You may also want to explore Togetherall - an online community that is clinically moderated and offers students a safe and anonymous place to explore your feelings and think things through. Togetherall is free for all USW students and available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

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

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.