There is no singular Oxford experience, but it’s no secret that it has its challenges. University is a time where so much is happening and changing in our lives that it’s a near universal experience to struggle sometimes. If we voice that we’re struggling, people may respond by jumping to practical suggestions for solving our problems, which can be great, but what if we don’t want solutions? What if we just want to let it out? We might know what we should do, or we might not, but sometimes we just need someone to listen. That’s where Oxford Nightline comes in. 

Every support service has its role in the Oxford mental health ecosystem. For Oxford Nightline, that role is simply offering a listening ear at times when others might not be around. Nightline is a student-run, anonymous, confidential and non-judgemental listening support service open from 8pm to 8am every night of term. As a listening service, Nightline won’t attempt to solve problems or tell anyone what to do; it offers a safe space for people to talk about whatever’s on their mind, big or small, and work through their thoughts and feelings. There is no judgement and, being completely anonymous, the service is well-placed for allowing people to voice concerns without the worry of others finding out, which can be incredibly helpful. 

Offering support every night of term is a key part of Nightline. The service is open from 0th to 9th week by phone and instant messaging (IM). Nonetheless, even though the vacs are long, they aren’t necessarily less stressful. Having opened for the entirety of the Oxford Brookes’ terms this year, Nightline will also be open during the upcoming vac for an additional 3 weeks after Hilary 9th week – so, until 12th April. During this time, IMs will be open every night from 8pm offering support during a time that can be just as stressful as term time. Oxford Nightline plays an important role in the student community and supporting student wellbeing. It has been supporting students every night of term since it opened in 1972 and, at its heart, it remains a service run for students by students making it a unique resource. Even though everyone’s experiences are individual, it can be comforting to know that the person listening is also a student at Oxford – there’s a feeling of shared experience and a baseline level of understanding. Ultimately, knowing that there is someone who you can talk to and who will listen to you at any time of the night is invaluable.