You're not alone

Whether you’re naturally shy, still finding your feet, or just missing home, it’s completely normal to feel a bit lonely. At Bath, you don’t have to go through it on your own. We have dedicated, specially-trained Residence Life Ambassadors (RLAs) in your accommodation who are here to support you. 

Who are the RLAs?

There’s a pool of around 25–30 RLAs across our community. Each one has been carefully selected through interviews and trained by Bath Mind, so they know how to listen, reassure, and support students who might be struggling.

How it works

If a team member notices that you might be feeling lonely or isolated, they will tell you about the buddy system we have in place, where you can buddy up with an RLA who might be best placed to help and usually close to your accommodation. 

If you would like to go ahead with this, your RLA buddy will get in touch with you – usually by email or phone – to say hello and arrange a time to meet in person. That could be something simple like grabbing a coffee or a hot drink together on campus.

What happens next

If you’d like more ongoing support, your RLA can be your Extended Buddy, meaning you can meet up more than once, as often as feels right for you.

If you feel one meeting is enough, they’ll offer a final catch-up chat to check in and see how you’re doing.

If at any point you decide you’d rather not meet, that’s fine too, you’ll be sent an email with useful links to other support options.

Safeguarding and support

Your wellbeing is always the priority. If there are any safeguarding concerns, these will be raised with the right staff straight away to make sure you’re safe and supported.

If you’re feeling lonely, you’re not the only one, and you don’t have to face it alone. Here's more tips on dealing with loneliness and taking care of yourself. 

Bath’s RLAs are approachable students who get it, and they’re here to walk alongside you until you feel more at home.