Every Academy student is backed by a strong network that recognises the person as well as the musician

Student wellbeing is critical. We want you to make the most of your time here and establish good habits that will help you in the future. Our courses are designed to develop your ability to thrive in the music profession and support your physical and mental health throughout your career.

We have a strong network of experienced staff to help you through your studies and we dedicate significant resources to this area.

Heads of Years and Tutors

All Academy students are assigned a Head of Year (undergraduates) or Tutor (postgraduates) for the duration of their studies. Your Head of Year or Tutor is responsible for both your academic and pastoral welfare, so will usually be your first port of call if you have a problem or need guidance in any areas of your studies, including:

  • performance and academic options
  • timetabling
  • progress
  • any other aspect of your programme of study

Your Head of Year or Tutor will work closely with your Head of Department and teachers to monitor your overall progress.

Counselling

If things get tough, it’s important to know where to turn.

We have trained counsellors who will listen confidentially and without judgement. They can also refer you to specialist external resources if needed.

Counselling offers you a safe, confidential space to talk about your life and anything confusing, painful or uncomfortable. Academy counselling sessions encourage you to conceptualise problems in new ways, gain a better understanding of difficulties you may be facing and develop emotional and psychological strength. We also have Mental Health First Aiders available if you need someone to talk to.

Initial enquiry

If you need to contact us please email Counsellor@ram.ac.uk in the first instance.

Counsellors

Harpal Chatwal
Head of Psychological Services
Monday to Friday (9am - 5pm)
Email: hchatwal@ram.ac.uk

What to do in an emergency

If you or someone you know is in urgent need of help, call 999 or go to Accident and Emergency (A&E).

The closest A&E departments to the Academy are:

University College Hospital London
235 Euston Road
NW1 2BU

St Mary’s Hospital
Praed Street
W2 1NY

There is a Mental Health Crisis Assessment Service at:

St Pancras Hospital
4 St Pancras Way
NW1 0PE

Struggling to cope?

If you’re feeling helpless and overwhelmed or are having suicidal thoughts, it’s important to talk to someone. Help is always on hand.

  • Contact the Academy Counselling Service on 020 7873 7303 (9am to 5pm) or Counsellor@ram.ac.uk
  • Talk to someone you trust – let family or friends know how you are feeling
  • Speak to your Head of Year or Tutor
  • Call your GP and ask for an emergency appointment

There are free helplines, some of which are open 24 hours a day, every day.

London Nightline
Tel: 020 7631 0101

Confidential listening support and advice service for students, run by students. Available 6pm-8am every night in term time.

Samaritans
Tel: 116 123 (free from any phone)

Available day or night, 365 days a year, to listen without judgement or pressure.

HOPEline
Tel: 0800 068 4141 (free from land lines)
SMS: 88247

Confidential support and advice for people under 35 with thoughts of suicide. Open 9am-10pm on weekdays; 2pm-10pm on weekends and bank holidays.

Key Contacts

  • Emergency medical advice and information, including 24/7 access to mental health care, advice and support - 111
  • Emergency services - 999
  • Rape Crisis National Freephone Helpline - 0808 802 9999
  • Police - 101
  • Camden & Islington (C&I) Mental Health Crisis Line (24/7) - 020 3317 6333