The Common Room

A blog covering all aspects of student life - from relationships and wellbeing to budgeting and goal planning.

All PostsParents & guardiansFood & DrinkHealth & Wellbeing Student LivingStudy & CareersMoney

How to come to terms with an empty nest

This year, hundreds of thousands of students have started university here in the UK. With that comes a lot of parents and guardians having to say goodbye, as their young person leaves home – often for the first time. It’s natural for parents and guardians to feel at a loss when this happens – even a sense of grief. In fact, according to a recent study of 1,000 UK parents who dropped their child off at university this autumn - 83% said it caused them extreme grief to do so.

ByDr Dominique Thompson
1 October 2025
Read now
Parents walking behind graduate child

All posts

Students eating pizza whilst studying
Parents & guardians
How parents & guardians can support students' transition to university lifeThe first days at university are a big step – not just for your student, but for you too. While films might make it look like non-stop parties, the reality is usually more about learning flatmates’ names, finding the laundry room, and tracking down the nearest supermarket. Here’s how we help new students settle in – and a few simple ways you can support them before they go.
ByJack Williams
18 September 2025
Man in a wheelchair with woman
Parents & guardians
What’s uni life like for people with disabilities?Jumping into uni life can feel like a big leap in any circumstance – whether you’re thirty minutes from home, or several cities away. It comes with a lot of concerns and considerations, especially for disabled or neurodiverse students.
ByJack Williams
8 July 2025
2 women talking on a sofa
Parents & guardians
Support options for struggling university studentsIt’s normal to face challenges at university – academically, socially, emotionally, or financially. But there are always support options available for students – whether you’re going through a hard time or just need some advice.
ByAmelia. A
4 July 2025
Students using the games area
Parents & guardians
How to avoid uni accommodation scams: A guide for UK studentsYour university experience should be filled with new lessons, exciting ventures, and fond memories — not derailed by a uni accommodation scam. According to the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau, young people between 18 and 39 account for nearly three-quarters of rental fraud cases.
ByAmelia. A
3 July 2025
Man using mobile phone
Parents & guardians
How to change or cancel uni accommodationLiving situation not working out as you’d hoped? Don’t worry – it’s perfectly normal to reconsider your student accommodation choice. There are many reasons why your uni accommodation may not fit the bill – whether you were overambitious with the walk to university, or are packing in your course altogether.
ByAmelia. A
2 July 2025
Students getting their exam results
Study & Careers
Results day: What happens if you don’t get your first choice?The summer before uni is super exciting, but the wait for your results can be nerve-wracking.
ByJodie T.
12 June 2025
Graduate hugging parent
Parents & guardians
The parent’s guide to student accommodationAre your kids about to fly the nest for the next few years? It’s a big step – for them and for you. There’s a lot to think about when it comes to finding student accommodation and, if you want to give them the best start, you may want to help your child out.
ByAmelia. A
5 June 2025
Parents sitting at breakfast bar
Parents & guardians
How parental income affects student finances at university: A guide for UK parentsAs a parent, sending your child off to university can be stressful and, for many, financing their new adventure can be one of the largest headaches. The sheer range of options available – including student loans, bursaries and grants – can seem daunting at first. It’s a good idea to first understand what your child is entitled to, and how your income will affect the amount they may be eligible for.
ByJack Williams
5 June 2025

Get the lowdown on all things student living. From choosing a uni course to deciding on your student accommodation, there’s a lot to think about. The Unite Students’ Common Room is your go-to for tips and advice on uni life.

The uni experience goes far beyond where you study and sleep. The friends you meet along the way are a big part of it – but don’t worry if you haven’t found your people yet. There’s plenty of time. Get an insight into how to make the most of freshers week, meet new people, manage relationships at university and more in our articles.

Heading to uni halls may be the first time you’re living away from home, so we’ve also covered things like managing homesickness, budgeting, food shops and even sharing a kitchen in university accommodation.

Ready to make the leap into higher education? Find your answers to university living in the Unite Students’ Common Room.