Pastoral and spiritual support for all faiths and none

We offer support for the whole university community, whether you think of yourself as spiritual, religious, a person of faith or of no faith at all
Pastoral and Spiritual Support Service Lounge
We are a team of pastoral volunteers and chaplains, offering pastoral and spiritual support to staff and students at the University.
The team is led by our pastoral and spiritual support coordinator.
We welcome all members of the university community, regardless of your faith or beliefs.
Our pastoral and spiritual support services are now running in person and we are open for people to drop in Monday to Friday 10:00–16:00 at 1 Kirkby Terrace (opposite the James Street Vaults).
Alternatively, you can contact us for appointments by emailing spiritualsupport@plymouth.ac.uk. 
Conflict between Israel and Hamas – support for our community
Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the ongoing situation in the Middle East, especially those with family or friends in Israel or Gaza. We understand that many of our University community will be concerned so encourage them to access our wellbeing support. We have contacted students with known links to the region to offer individual support and remind them of the help available to them.
 

Weekly 'What's On'

Monday

Tranquility Zone: 1pm–2pm
For a peaceful escape through the power of music, prayers, passages, inspirational quotes and poetry.

Tuesday

Cake and Conversations: 1pm–2pm
Enjoy delicious cakes while chatting with fellow cake lovers.

Wednesday

Meditation: 12.30pm–1pm
Experience meditation's transformative benefits.
Board Games: 1pm–2pm
Enjoy an hour of competitive play, whether solo or with friends.

Thursday

Soul Fuel: 9.45am–10am
Christian focused meditation, discussion and prayer. All welcome.
Tea and Talk: 4pm–6pm
Join our tea and talk gathering ofr free tea, biscuits, and good company.

Friday

Path of the Prophet: 11am–12pm
Exploring the Prophet's teachings and life. Everyone is invited.

/ We want to hear from you! 

Please let us know what events you'd like to see by emailing spiritualsupport@plymouth.ac.uk.

Pastoral and Spiritual Support 'time to talk' poster 
Time to Talk
Monday to Friday, 10:00–16:00
Pastoral and Spiritual Support 'lunchtime meditation sessions' poster
Lunchtime meditation sessions
Every Wednesday, 12:30–13:00
Pastoral and Spiritual Support 'little Ted's excellent adventures' poster
Li'l Ted's adventures
Book him out now!

What people say about us

Give it a try, I ve found it really helpful way to reduce stress and calm racing thoughts and overthinking.

Meditation
Owen Kowalski

It met my needs 100% - having time to reflect on feelings is is valuable.

The Art of Listening, Meditating and Self-Reflection workshop 
Dee Champion
Belly dancing at the Pastoral and Spiritual Support center
Playing board games at the Pastoral and Spiritual Support centre

You are making it cool to talk about life and faith, in all its forms... The pastoral and spiritual support centre is a space we can all be proud of.

Poorna GunasekeraDr Poorna Gunasekera
Associate Dean International

Made me think about how to compartmentalise my things. Attend if you need help organising your life and how to plan things.

Finding your Focus Workshop
Mia Ager
A group of students celebrate Eid in the Pastoral and Spiritual Support Centre
Students playing games in the the Pastoral and Spiritual Support Centre

Having come to here during one of the most difficult times in my life, the chaplain has been amazing and always ready to listen and pray with me. I appreciate the support given in encouraging and keeping me focused on scripture.

RO, postgraduate student

Recently bereaved, I started exploring my Christian faith through weekly bible studies with one of the Chaplains in the Pastoral and Spiritual Support Centre. This has given me huge comfort and the wisdom and kindness shown to me has changed my life!

SH (July 2023)

I’ve had 16 sessions worth of therapy in my life and those 2 workshop hours made more impact than all of those sessions did.

The Art of Listening, Meditating and Self-Reflection workshop

Andrew HoriganMr Andrew Horigan
TNE & Articulations Coordinator

Discover more

Pastoral and Spiritual Support building

Room booking

Students can book a room at the Pastoral & Spiritual Support service between 10am and 4pm by emailing spiritualsupport@plymouth.ac.uk.
As a UPSU affiliated student group, you can book the Pastoral & Spiritual Support space out of hours from 4pm to 10:30pm Monday to Friday and 8am to 10:30pm at weekends. To do so please book via your activities portal as you would with other spaces on campus. The department will then book this space on your behalf. 
If you have any questions please email - societies@su.plymouth.ac.uk.
Pastoral and Spiritual Support centre lending library

Library books

The Pastoral and Spiritual Support centre has a library of books which you are welcome to borrow. 

Student faith and belief societies

University of Plymouth students have access to over 100 societies. They help connect you with others who share your passion.
All societies at the Students' Union are student led. Joining any one of them is a great way to make the most of your university experience, meet new people, learn new things, explore your passions and have fun.
There are a number of faith and belief societies which may be of interest to you.
Group of young people gather for a bible studyBible Group Reading Together Smiling At Each Other
 
 

Spaces for prayer, reflection or meditation

On campus

1 Kirkby Place, between 10:00–16:00. An additional bookable space is available in the Pastoral and Spiritual Support building, 1 Kirkby Terrace.
Reflection room on the 2nd floor of the library, room 225. Open 24/7 term time and reduced hours during holiday times.