Health Tips
Stay healthy. This webpage contains information, updates and tips relating to your health and well-being, on and off campus.
For important safety information and tips for your well-being, check out our dedicated webpage by clicking the link below:
Communicable Diseases
Mumps
Mumps is a contagious viral infection that primarily causes painful swelling of the salivary glands (parotid glands) located between the ear and the jaw.
There has been a recent increase in the number of people diagnosed with mumps in Scotland.
The MMR vaccine protects against mumps (as well as measles and rubella) and has been given to children in the UK since 1998, meaning much of the population is protected.
However, if you don't think or are unsure if you have had this immunisation, we're encouraging students to double-check and make sure you’ve had two MMR vaccinations. You can find out if you’ve had all your routine vaccinations by contacting your local GP or practice nurse who should be able to find out for you.
The NHS has more information on mumps and routine vaccination:
Meningitis
Meningitis is an inflammation of the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. it is most commonly caused by viral or bacterial infections and is a serious and potentially life-threatening disease.
That said, meningitis and septicaemia (blood poisoning) are rare. Young people up to 24 are at the highest risk of getting meningococcal disease – so it’s important to be aware of the symptoms and know what to do.
Meningitis can strike quickly – check out this video about one student’s story.
Find out more about the symptoms and possible vaccinations.
Measles
Measles is a highly infectious viral illness that can be very unpleasant and sometimes lead to serious complications. If you’re unsure whether you’ve been inoculated against measles, most commonly via the MMR vaccine, then it’s recommended that you talk to your GP to arrange this.
Find out more Measles, including symptoms, actions and advice regarding treatment on the NHS website, by clicking the link below:
Health services
If you’re new to Scotland, read this factsheet about how to get health care while you’re here.
Whether you’re new to Scotland or just to the local area, be sure to register with a local GP. You can find details of local doctors’ surgeries and other health services in Scotland by visiting the NHS Inform website.
London students must register with a local GP. Use the HNS England webpages to find ount more on London-based local GP services: NHS England - Registering with Local GPs.
Remember to register with a dentist too. Keeping up with check-ups can prevent the need for costly treatment.
UK residents can normally get a free NHS eye test every two years.
If you have a low income, you may be able to claim help towards costs for services such as dental treatment or spectacles. You need to complete an HC1 form. Click the following link for more details on the NHS Low Income Scheme.
If you’re unwell
- If you or someone else is unwell, and you’re unable to get to a GP, you can call the NHS 24 helpline free on 111
- Ask a pharmacy if you’re feeling unwell and need help finding the best medicine – it’s usually quicker than a GP appointment
- NHS Inform has information on health conditions and tips for self-care.
Sexual health
You can find information on local sexual health clinics and free condom suppliers at these links:
SAUWS also distribute free condoms from the Students’ Unions at Ayr, Lanarkshire and Paisley.
SAUW’s provision and advertising are localised according to the health services specific to each campus. They offer pick-up points in Ayr, Paisley, and Lanarkshire where students can access condoms, internal condoms, and lubricant. They also provide information about registering for the CCard schemes, which vary by health service area. To support this, they have posters and guidance tailored to each campus’s local health service.
Both of SAUW’s advice workers have received NHS training to help students register for the CCard scheme and provide condoms, as well as information on STI and sexual health testing.
On campus, relevant posters and information is displayed directing students to STI and sexual health clinics.
Mental health
Handle feelings of stress or anxiety. SilverCloud gives you secure, immediate access to interactive CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) modules.
Modules include Understanding Feelings, Facing your Fears and Managing Worry.
It’s easy to use and designed to be motivational. Access it anywhere on your computer, tablet or mobile.
Learn more and sign-up to SilverCloud online.
See also our Student Mental Health Agreement webpage.
Last updated: 30/06/2026