More about the UniversityÌýRetreat

people talking in the University retreat

The University Retreat is a collaboration between BU, Arts University Bournemouth (AUB), AECC University College, Dorset HealthCare University NHS Foundation Trust, Dorset Mental Health Forum and BCHA (Bournemouth Churches Housing Association).Ìý

It offers a drop-in service for students from all three Bournemouth universities: BU, Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) and AECC University College. You don't need an appointment; just pop in and talk to one of our friendly team.Ìý

Staff won't offer medication or structured therapy, but rather self-management advice and advice that helps you find the solutionsÌýto aid your recovery.

Opening days and times: Monday to Saturday, 2pm to 9pm
Location: Tolpuddle Annexe 2, Talbot CampusÌý

Find Tolpuddle Annexe 2 on our interactive map

Off-campus support fromÌýThe Retreat

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The Retreat is run by Dorset HealthCare University NHS Foundation Trust and similar to The University Retreat, it provides a safe and welcoming space where you can discuss how you're feeling and work towards solutions.Ìý

Both The Retreat in Bournemouth town centre and in DorchesterÌýare staffed by peer specialists and mental health professionals who won't offer medication or formal therapy, but will support and promote self-management. There is the option to escalate to further clinical support if needed.

The Retreat, Bournemouth town centre:

  • Address:Ìý
  • Opening days and times: everyday, from 4:30pm to 11.30pm

The Retreat, ​Dorchester:

  • Address:Ìý
  • Opening days and times:Ìý Saturday to Wednesday, 4:30pm to 11.30pm

Support from Community Front Rooms

The Retreat is part of the NHSÌýCommunity Front Room model, which has been successful in supporting other communities across Dorset. Open to anyone over 18, theseÌýare welcoming, informal, safe spaces where you can discuss your problems. They are staffed by mental health professionals and peer specialists. If necessary, you may be offered an assessment which may lead to support from other mental health services.

Community Front Rooms: Bridport, Wareham and Shaftesbury:

  • Opening days and times: Thursday to Sunday, 2:15pm toÌý9:45pm

Community Front Room: Weymouth:

  • Opening days and times: Monday to Sunday, 2:15pm to 9:45pm

What to do if it's urgent or an emergencyÌý

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  • If you needÌýurgentÌýhelpÌýcallÌýNHS 111
  • If you need urgent mental health support, call 0800 652 0190. Support is available 24/7Ìýand is provided by Connection, part of the Dorset Crisis Response Service
  • If you needÌýimmediateÌýhelpÌýcallÌý999ÌýorÌý01202 962222Ìýif you're on campus