Parents & guardians

Advice and information for the parents and guardians of young people going to university, or students living at university

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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
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Parents walking behind graduate child

Featured posts

Graduate hugging parent
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 & guardians posts

Students eating pizza whilst studying
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
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
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
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
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
Parents sitting at breakfast bar
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
Student on laptop in the library
How to apply for university in the UK: A step-by-step guideApplying to uni isn’t as daunting as you might think. Discover how to apply for university in the UK for both local & international students in our guide.
ByJack Williams
4 June 2025
Photo of unsigned contract
Accommodation contracts explainedYou’re heading to uni and have finally decided on your student accommodation. Congrats! Now all that’s left is to sign your student tenancy agreement. But what exactly is it?
ByAmelia. A
7 May 2025