Writtle University College and ARU have merged. Writtle’s full range of college, degree, postgraduate and short courses will still be delivered on the Writtle campus. See our guide to finding Writtle information on this site.

Care at Christmas

It's the most wonderful time of the year. But, with the cost-of-living crisis and the difficulties that some people face around the festive season, our focus is very much on wellbeing and #CareAtChristmas.



Throughout December, we'll be sharing support and advice about looking after ourselves and others. We'll hear from students and staff at ARU about how they:

  • practise self-care at Christmas
  • help out by volunteering
  • look out for others
  • work in healthcare or social care over the holidays
  • conduct research into care
  • plan their budgets and manage any financial worries.

We'll be sharing #ARUXmas blogs, photos and videos here on our website, and on our social media channels using the hashtag #CareAtChristmas.

Mindful colouring

Colouring can help us relax and focus on the present moment.

We've created these free downloadable colouring pages for you to print and enjoy some mindful colouring-in (#ARUXmas theme!). 

ARU Christmas colouring sheet

Cambridge campus colouring sheet

Chelmsford campus colouring sheet

ARU Peterborough campus colouring sheet

#CareAtChristmas blogs

Phone a friend: the benefits of volunteering

ARU staff member Patricia blogs about her volunteering role with Age UK.

Five self-care tips for the festive season

Digital Media Production student Sade shared five tips for self-care at Christmas.

Supporting your health and wellbeing

Our health and wellbeing hub for students will tell you about all the services on offer at ARU, from wellbeing workshops to mental health support. And, if you've got any questions about managing your money, our Money Advice Service can help.

We've also got a range of resources related to wellbeing, health and finances on The Heron for staff.