While the Students' Union is being re-developed, we've put together these handy FAQs to help you access our services

Accessing the Students’ Union

Contacting the SU Team

How can I access the SU team?

You can email any of our services at any time. We also run drop-in sessions in Coffee Cat (James Hehir Building) during the week where you can speak to SU officers and staff.

What are the SU email addresses?

  • General SU enquiries: su@uos.ac.uk
  • Student societies and sports teams: su.activities@uos.ac.uk
  • Student Advice Service (appeals, complaints, academic issues): su.advice@uos.ac.uk
  • Student Council, course reps & democracy: su.democracy@uos.ac.uk

How can I book appointments with SU staff and officers?

Email su@uos.ac.uk, attend a drop-in session, or speak to the Front of House student staff who can arrange appointments for you.

Drop-In Sessions

When are the drop-in sessions?

Whether you have questions, suggestions, or just want a chat about student life, our drop-ins are a great opportunity to meet the team face-to-face in Coffee Cat.

Day Time Drop-In Topic
Mondays 14:00–16:00 Student Activities (sports & societies)
Tuesdays 10:00–12:00 Student Advice (academic support)
Tuesdays 12:00–14:00 Lee-Ann, President of Education & Part-Time Officers
Wednesdays 10:00–12:00 Marketing (support for SU officers, sports & societies)
Fridays 12:00–14:00 Student Voice (democracy, elections, student council)

Front of House & Campus Facilities

What are the opening times of the Front of House service?

SU Front of House staff are based in Coffee Cat from 9:00am–3:30pm, Monday to Friday. They can assist with any SU queries and contact officers on your behalf.

Where can I socialise now that there’s no SU Social Space?

You’re welcome to use Coffee Cat (Mon–Fri, 8:30am–3:30pm). The pool table and table tennis have been relocated there during redevelopment.

Where can I heat up food in a microwave?

There is currently no microwave available. You are welcome to bring cold food and eat it in Coffee Cat without purchasing food or drink.

Where’s the nearest shop now that the SU shop is closed?

Londis on the Waterfront (near DanceEast) offers a student discount — remember your Uni ID card. Tesco near Athena Hall is another nearby option.

Prayer & Faith Spaces

Where are the Prayer Rooms located?

  • A216 (Atrium) – nearest washing facilities: 2nd floor bathrooms
  • HW0.43 (Health & Wellbeing) – accessed via short flight of steps
  • W124 (Waterfront) – accessible bathroom next door

From 21 March, W124 will operate as a multi-faith social and meeting space until the new Student Hub opens.

What’s happened to the Chaplaincy room?

The Chaplaincy room is closed due to redevelopment. W124 in the Waterfront building is being used temporarily as a multi-faith social and meeting space.

Gym & Student Support

Is the gym at Athena Hall still open for students?

Yes. It is operated by River Active and student membership is £5 per month. See the SU website for more information.

Can I get an emergency food parcel from the SU foodbank?

The SU Foodbank remains operational for Ipswich Campus students. Complete the online referral form and you’ll be emailed when your parcel is ready.

Collection is from SU Front of House in Coffee Cat between 9:30am–2:30pm, Monday to Friday.