Now that the party season is here you may be finding good opportunities to take a well-earned break from your studies. This means many students may be going out more, drinking more alcohol and possibly be using cannabis, legal highs and other substances.
Concerning facts:
- On average, students spend a total of 93 days during the 3 years of their degree drinking alcohol!!
- 61% of men and 48% of women regularly exceed the recommended weekly limits of 21 units for men and 14 units for women
- Although alcohol acts as a mood enhancer it is in fact a depressant and heavy drinking can lead to both physical and psychological problems
- Drink spiking is not uncommon
Please take care of yourself this part season and always. Information can be found at:
Things to do over Christmas
If you’re not into going out partying, there are plenty more activities to get involved in, both via Hallam Union’s clubs and societies and in Sheffield and the surrounding Peak District. With the weather forecast to be unusually mild this December, why not get out and discover more of The Outdoor City?
Our International Experience team have organised a programme of events for students who are staying in Sheffield over Christmas. Events are open to all students and are a great way to get to make friends from all around the world. Highlights include a Christmas Eve service at Hope City Church, a trip to Meadowhall for the Boxing Day sales and a visit to the historic city of Nottingham.
Have fun and stay safe
While it’s great to have fun in a variety of ways, if you are planning on hitting the town, we would like to remind you to stay safe when getting home at night.
- If you’re walking home at night, don’t walk alone and stick to well lit, main routes. All students are equally at risk – contrary to popular belief, men are statistically more likely to be assaulted on the way home than women
- Plan how you’re going to get home before you go out and keep money aside for a taxi
- If you go out with friends, stick together. Tell each other where you are going and who with if plans changes
- Keep track of what you are drinking, as well as how much. Drink soft drinks in between alcoholic ones
- If you’re working late at the library or your job, ask a friend to meet you if possible, or get a taxi
Did you know?
Sheffield Hallam Students’ Union has partnered up with City Taxis to make sure Sheffield Hallam students can always get home safe.
How it works
- Phone 0114 239 3939 and book your taxi quoting ‘Hallam Safe Taxi Scheme’
- Hand your SHU card to the driver as deposit for your fare
- After 48 hours go to the HUBS reception, pay your fare and pick up your SHU card
For more seasonal suggestions, check out our posts about accessing support while the University is closed for Christmas and getting ready for exams.