Health and wellbeing
Taking care of yourself is important, especially while you’re at university. Check out what’s on offer to keep you happy and healthy during your studies at Kingston.
Register with a doctor
If you’re ill during your studies, it’s important to be able to speak to a doctor straight away.
All UK students and international students studying here for six months or more can use the National Health Service (NHS) for free.
Make sure you register with a general practitioner (GP) as soon as you can. The NHS Choices website has a list of local GPs.
The nearest practice for most Kingston students is the Fairhill Medical Practice at the Health Centre at our Penrhyn Road campus. It offers:
- Medical and nursing consultations
- Contraceptive advice
- Sexual health advice
- Help with stopping smoking
- Vaccinations
Need to see a doctor?
Register with Fairhill Medical Practice at our Penrhyn Road campus and have access to a wide range of services and clinics.
Mental health and wellbeing
Life can be stressful. We’re here to support you when things get tough.
You can get six free 50-minute online or face-to-face counselling sessions while you’re at Kingston University. Sessions can support you through a variety of emotional and psychological issues.
Book a confidential, 10-minute drop-in session to chat about your concerns and our services. We offer these in-person and virtually.
Whether you’re worrying about deadlines, relationships or something completely different, our listening sessions offer informal, confidential support.
Head to a stress and time management session to develop new skills, build assertiveness and learn new ways to relax alongside your studies.
Check out our online self-help guides to find information on issues including abuse, bereavement, depression, eating disorders, panic, self harm, anxiety, sleeping and stress.
If you are a Kingston University student, you can access more guides and book sessions on our online platform, Kingston University Wellbeing Services.
Massage and acupuncture
Kingston University staff, students and visitors can access massage and acupuncture therapies at lower costs.
Sessions take place at the Penrhyn Road Health Centre. Call +44 (0)20 8417 2204 to book your appointment.
Massage can help with back pain, headaches, depression, anxiety, sports injuries and more.
How much?
- £30 for students
- £40 for staff and visitors
When?
Mondays between 11.30am and 3pm
Who?
Sophie Christou, VTCT level 3 Beauty Massage
Acupuncture helps with a range of illnesses and symptoms by restoring balance in the body.
How much?
- £30 for students
- £70 for staff and visitors (first appointment)
- £60 for staff and visitors (follow-up appointments)
When?
Wednesdays between 11am and 2pm
Who?
Nuala Price BSc Hons Acupuncture, Lic Ac MBAcC
I need to cancel my appointment. What should I do?
Call +44 (0)20 8417 2204 or email health@kingston.ac.uk with the name of your therapy in the subject line. Make sure you cancel 24 hours before your appointment to avoid a cancellation fee.
Do I need to see my doctor first?
No, but you might feel more comfortable getting some medical advice before booking an appointment.
Is the treatment a course or can they be one-off treatments?
Some therapies work well as a one-off, while others are best as a course. Ask your therapist if you’re not sure.
Will it hurt?
Therapists are all professionally trained. You should not feel any pain.
What if I am allergic to something?
Make sure you let your therapist know about any allergies.
What should I wear?
Please wear comfortable clothing.
Will I have to take off my clothes?
You may need to remove your clothing for some massage and acupuncture sessions. Cover-up towels will be available to make sure you’re comfortable.
I have mobility problems. Can I still access the therapies?
Massage and acupuncture sessions take place in downstairs rooms. Please ask the receptionist if you have a disability or any concerns about access.
Vaccination information
The Department of Health recommends that students have two doses of the Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) vaccine. Bring details of your vaccinations when you enrol.
If you haven’t had two doses of the MMR vaccine, please speak to your GP or a member of our Health Centre team when you arrive.
If you have not had or been offered the meningococcal C vaccine, please speak to your GP or a member of our Health Centre team when you arrive.
Find out more about vaccinations on the NHS website.
Get in touch
If you have any questions or can't find the information you’re looking for, email our Health and Wellbeing team or call us on +44 (0)20 8417 2204.
