If you are heading out for Halloween, remember that having fun doesn’t mean crossing boundaries or compromising safety. This guide offers helpful tips to ensure everyone’s enjoyment, respect, and safety during Halloween celebrations. 

Safety services at Kent 

If you are heading out, here’s a reminder of the safety services on offer at both our Canterbury and Medway campuses. From the trusty SafeZone app, a Walking Taxi Service, to round-the-clock Campus Security, CCTV, and patrols, we’ve got you covered. Check out Kent’s safety services to learn more. 

Consent. Get it. FULL STOP. 

It’s crucial to always check for consent in all sexual situations. Consent is non-negotiable, regardless of the circumstances. Remember, Consent. Get it. FULL STOP. 

Respect boundaries 

While Halloween is a time for spooks and scares, not everyone enjoys being frightened. It’s crucial to respect people’s comfort zones and ensure that the fun doesn’t turn into distress for someone else. 

What to do in case of inappropriate behaviour 

If you witness something inappropriate or unsettling, there are several actions you can take. The University’s confidential online reporting tool, REPORT + SUPPORT, allows you to report and get advice about various issues. These include sexual misconduct, physical and verbal abuse, spiking, harassment or bullying, discrimination, or hate incidents. You can report anonymously or get support from an adviser. 

Seeking help at the bar 

If you ever find yourself in an uncomfortable or threatening situation, you can discreetly ask for help at the bar. Simply ask for ‘Angela’ at bars in Canterbury (including all bars on campus), and the bar staff will understand that you need assistance. They can call you a taxi or help you out discreetly, ensuring your safety without drawing unnecessary attention. 

Building a safer community 

Everyone can contribute to creating a safer community, especially during festive occasions like Halloween. By respecting others’ boundaries, taking control, and seeking support when necessary, we can ensure a safe and enjoyable celebration for all. Remember, ‘Consent. Get it. FULL STOP.’ 

Many students at some point during their time at university have struggled with homesickness, whether they be in their first year or in their final year. This is a normal feeling as being in an unfamiliar environment with a different routine can be an adjustment for many and is nothing to be ashamed about.

From my own personal experience and understanding from others, I have compiled a little ‘Homesickness Toolkit’ to help manage and overcome homesickness at university…

1. Throw yourself into university life. Try to get to know and socialise with your flatmates as well as your course mates. And join societies! Kent has many sports and non-sports societies that cater to all students. Have a look on the Kent Union webpage for more information regarding this. Having a strong support network around you is important, and just having a chat with a friend can make a world of difference!
2. Why not decorate your room with photos, posters or anything that makes you feel more at home? Having things around you that are familiar and comforting will make you feel more at ease in your new space. For example, I have a photo of my family that I always display in my room. This reminds me of the happy memories that I have shared with them, making me feel more relaxed and comfortable in my new room.
3. Keeping in touch with family and friends from home. Planning a phone or video chat catch-up with someone you miss can be a good way to feel closer to them. Maybe plan a specific day or time during the week to call to make sure everyone keeps that time free.
4. It sounds obvious but explore our beautiful campus! Whether you are in Canterbury or Medway, the University of Kent has so many facilities on offer for you to make use of. Familiarity with your surrounding area would help to combat the feeling of homesickness, as you will begin to love the new area you are calling home during term-time! Check out the online map for venues you might not have come across so far.
5. Why not plan a home visit? There is nothing wrong with going back home every once in a while. University is a change, and it’s sometimes nice to go back to a familiar environment. Or you could even plan for family and friends to come and visit you at uni. You could show them around town, around campus and your favourite hangouts!

It is okay to ask for help. The feeling of homesickness may pass, or you may continue to feel overwhelmed and might therefore benefit from support provided by Student Support and Wellbeing. If this is the case, then have a look at the resources available on the Student Support and Wellbeing webpage and get in contact if you need additional support.

Written by Lucie, postgraduate student

Whether you are a new student or looking to expand your circle, Umii connects you to students at university with the same interests, similar course types and societies as you.

University is a major time in your life, and one you shouldn’t do alone. We teamed up with Umii to make it easier for you to find and meet other Kent students outside of your course and accommodation. Only verified Kent students can access the app, so you can be sure who you’re connecting with is a real student.

KentVision will now remain open throughout the period of 1-6 November.

A new date for the upgrade and associated system work will be agreed as soon as possible.

Apologies for any inconvenience caused.