Page content

Ulster University is very much part of the local communities in which we are based and enjoys many rewarding community partnerships right across Northern Ireland.

For so many reasons, Northern Ireland is a special and great place in which to live, work and study. Regrettably, civic unrest can emerge in any community, at any time and for any reason.

If or when it does, we are guided by our values and the inclusivity that is central to our multi-cultural and diverse University community.  We also take practical steps to reach out and support employees and students if this arises and encourage our staff and student community to look out for each other and stay connected.

We value all our colleagues at Ulster University and understand that public disorder or disruption in any circumstances in wider society is both distressing and unacceptable.

If at any time you feel concerned, apprehensive, vulnerable or at risk - we are here to support you.

Support and Contacts

Employee Support and Contacts

If civic unrest occurs and you are struggling during this time, support can be sought from your Line Manager, your People Partner, or a member of the Employee Wellbeing or Occupational Health teams.

Employee Wellbeing

Resources available are detailed on the Employee Wellbeing Webpage.

Inspire Workplace

Additional around-the-clock confidential counselling support is also available through the University Employee Assistance programme Inspire Workplace on 0808 800 0002 and more detail can be found on Inspire Workplace.

Student Support and Contacts

Student Wellbeing

If social unrest arises, there are extensive student support services here for you at Ulster University, offering guidance and practical assistance should you need support.

You can get in touch with our Student Wellbeing Team:

If you or your studies are directly affected by civic unrest arising under any circumstances, reach out to your studies advisor, course director, or supervisor who will be able to provide pastoral support.

Around-the-Clock Support

At any time of the day or night, you are not alone.  You can also contact the following services:

  • Inspire (student counselling) at 0800 028 5510
  • Lifeline (crisis support) at 0808 808 8000
  • Samaritans (listening ear) at 116 123

International Students

Through our International Student Advisory Service, you can arrange a same or next-day appointment either as a face-to-face appointment on campus, or an online meeting:

Apps for on Campus and BeyondApps for on Campus and Beyond

Safe Zone app

Our staff and student community can access the SafeZone app, making it easier to directly contact University Security from your mobile device. Visit Ulster Safezone for more information.

HollieGuard app

The HollieGuard APP is a personal safety APP – safeguarding people where it matters.  Anyone can download the APP for free. In partnership with Belfast Policing and Community Safety Partnership, Ulster University has secured a number paid for licences for the Hollie Guard Personal Safety EXTRA app.

These EXTRA licences are for students and staff who may be living in a high-risk context, including being considered at risk or in fear of being a victim of hate crime, domestic abuse, stalking or who have already engaged with the PSNI about threats to personal or property safety.   To request support to download and access the HollieGuard EXTRA app, please contact Una Calvert up.calvert@ulster.ac.uk.

Useful Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) Support and Contacts

When you need help, if you are a victim of crime or are concerned that you may be at risk, the PSNI is there to support, including during any periods of public disorder if this arises.

With officers on patrol and measures to keep communities safe, if you see or experience anything that makes you fearful, don’t hesitate to contact the police.  Every incident matters.

How to Contact Police

  • In an emergency call 999
  • If you have information about a crime – call 101
  • Report online through the PSNI website.

If you are Concerned About Contacting the Police Yourself

PSNI in Partnership

The PSNI works closely with partner organisations, agencies, community groups and community representatives to make sure its response is the best that it can be and that information is shared in a timely way between the service and the diverse communities it serves and protects.

PSNI Personal, Property and Public Safety Advice

When it comes to personal safety and wellbeing, we think it’s better to be looking at it rather than looking for it.

Take some time to find out about top safety tips and the steps you can take alongside the role of others and save to your personal devices the relevant the Apps or contact numbers on this page.

Have conversations within friends, family and University networks so you and others are familiar with what to do should you ever find yourself in need of support.

Find out more about the safety and protection of people and property: