Guidance and support in case of crises

Student Wellbeing Point

You may also like to drop by at the Student Wellbeing Point. This is a student-led initiative for students by students and is located in the main VU building, next to the Student Desk. You can drop by (without an appointment) or use the live chat functionality on their website. studentwellbeingpoint@vu.nl 

Check out the full Student Wellbeing Programme.

3D

3D is the place where the VU community can come together in case of need. During moments of crisis, often student led initiatives and meetings are held at 3D, offering a space for those who want to meet and share their thoughts. You will find 3D on our campus square, on the right corner from Spar supermarket. 3D@vu.nl

NEWConnective

NEWConnective organises events on personal development, and questions on life, meaning and personal beliefs. The events includes activities around activism, grief, or social anxiety. Throughout the year they organise meditations in the VU’s Silence Room (HG-1A57) and they can get you in contact with a spiritual counsellor if needed. newconnective@vu.nl

Financial support is available for students who are worried about their financial situation. Think of problems paying tuition fees or rent, or if you do not have access to your bank account. In this case, contact the Student Counsellors for help and advice. Financial problems that cause you to be unable to pay tuition fees can also be discussed at the Tuition fee consultation hour.

Students who find themselves in acute financial difficulty due to a crisis situation can apply to the VU Emergency Fund. There are a number of conditions attached to eligibility.

If you experience inappropriate behaviour, such as (cyber)bullying, stalking, doxing, discrimination, (sexual) harassment, or aggression and violence, it is always important to talk about it. This guide outlines what you can do and where you can turn for support.

You can always contact the confidential counsellor. The confidential counsellor offers initial support, provides advice on the different options available to address the situation, supports you if you wish to pursue mediation or submit a complaint, and ensures that aftercare is provided where necessary. 

Have you come into contact with concerning behaviour? For example, threats, stalking or doxing, radicalisation, confused or incomprehensible behaviour, or signals of suicidality? Are you concerned that a fellow student or colleague may pose a risk to others or to themselves? Or do you have concerns about an unsafe home situation due to domestic or honour-related violence?

In such cases, it is important to seek support, even if you are unsure about the urgency. This guide explains what you can do and where you can turn for support within the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam.

You can always contact the coordinators safety and behavior. They carry out risk assessments and can support you in identifying solutions to restore safety. Visit this page for more information and to make an appointment with the coordinators safety and behavior.

Alternatively if you would like to talk to someone anonymously, you can contact the so called ‘Luisterlijn’, available 24/7 via deluisterlijn.nl or 088 0767 000 (also in English).