In light of the recent devastating earthquake that has struck Morocco, myself, the Officer team and the entire Students' Union, extend our heartfelt condolences and stand in solidarity with all those who have been affected by this tragic event.

This natural disaster may cause a great deal of concern for students who may have family, friends, and loved ones affected by the earthquake in Morocco.

The earthquake, which occurred on Friday 8 September 2023, has led to widespread damage, including collapsed buildings and a significant number of casualties. As we come together to offer our support, it is crucial that we keep those impacted in our thoughts and prayers during this challenging time.

For the latest updates and comprehensive coverage of the situation, we recommend referring to BBC News’ live coverage of the earthquake.

We understand that some of our students may be directly affected by this tragedy. If you find yourself facing any issues or need support, please know that Your Students' Union Advice Service is here for you. You can request a meeting with an Advice Caseworker or explore the range of support services we offer to ensure you receive the assistance you need to fill out the online enquiry form.

Additionally, Coventry University has a Health and Wellbeing Service that can provide support during difficult times, including access to counselling services at each of our campuses. Please follow the specific links for Coventry-based students, Coventry University London, CU Coventry, CU London and CU Scarborough for location-specific guidance and resources.

The global community is rallying to assist those affected by the earthquake in Morocco, and we encourage everyone to contribute to relief efforts in any way they can. Every act of kindness makes a difference in the lives of those in need.

As Welfare Officer of Your Students’ Union, I want to reassure any affected  students that we are here to support you in any way possible. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us if you require assistance, guidance, or simply someone to talk to during these challenging times.

The UK government has announced the immediate deployment of search and rescue and medical teams to the affected area in Morocco.

In addition to the services above, there are various support mechanisms available if are struggling. The Samaritans, a registered charity, provides emotional support to anyone in need 24/7. You can reach them at 116 123, free of charge. Moreover, SHOUT is a free, confidential, anonymous mental health text support service available round the clock. To initiate a conversation, simply text the word 'SHOUT' to 85258.

For a comprehensive list of third-party support services, please visit our Support Hub on our website.