10 Things to Know During the Winter Break 💌
Before you log off, layer up, and dive into festive treats, here are 10 things to know to help you rest, recharge, and stay in the know this Winter Break.
1. JMSU Is Closed Over Winter Break 🎄
We will be closed in line with the university closure period, with services and activities resuming in January. We will be hanging up our stockings from Friday 19th December 2025 (with limited availability up until 23rd December 2025) and reopening on Monday 5th January 2026. All JMSU services including reception and social media will be offline during this time.
2. University Buildings Close 23rd December 🏫
Most LJMU buildings and student services close at 5pm on Tuesday 23rd December 2025 and reopen Monday 5th January 2026. Plan ahead if you need access to facilities. For full details, visit the LJMU website.
3. Student Life Building Stays Open 24/7 🏢
The Student Life Building stays open 24/7, even on Christmas Day! Cafés will be closed, but vending machines are available, and security will always be on hand.
4. Support Services Available on Selected Days 💙
Student Life and Wellbeing staff will be available in the Student Life Building from 10am-4pm on:
- Monday 29th December
- Tuesday 30th December
- Friday 2nd January
They can help with queries and book appointments for January.
5. Libraries Stay Closed but Online Resources Are Open 📚
The City Campus and Mount Pleasant libraries close 23rd December 2025 and reopen 5th January 2026 at 8:45am. Access thousands of online books, journals, and study resources via Discover during the break.
6. Careers, Unitemps & Gym Access 💼
Careers Zone and Unitemps services will pause from 19th/23rd December and will reopen on 5th January 2026, although email support will remain available during the break. The LJMU Sport Building will close on 23rd December 2025 and reopen on 5th January 2026, but a pop-up gym will be set up in the JMSU Activity Space for use throughout the Winter Break.
7. Campus Security Is Always Available 🚨
Security is available 24/7 and can be contacted via the phone number on your ID card or the SafeZone app for help, advice, or emergencies.
8. International Student Support 🌍
International student ambassadors will be available in the Student Life Building from 10am-4pm on:
- Monday 29th December
- Tuesday 30th December
- Friday 2nd January
They are there to chat, answer questions, and provide support during the break.
9. External Support & Wellbeing 🧠
Support is available throughout the break whether it is mental health, sexual health, or just someone to talk to.
- Mental Health: SilverCloud, Student Minds, Student Space, Every Mind Matters, Hub of Hope, CALM, Talk Liverpool, Mind, Rethink Mental Illness, Samaritans (24/7: call 116123), Papyrus (call 0800 068 4141), SHOUT (text: 85258)
- Sexual Health: Liverpool Sexual Health and Axess Sexual Health offer services including contraception, LGBT+ wellbeing support, STI screening, pregnancy testing, abortion referrals and more.
10. Refreshers Week: 26th–30th January 🎉
Refreshers Week is back and ready to help you kick off the new term the right way! Running from 26th-30th January 2026, it’s packed with events, activities, and opportunities to get involved with JMSU, meet new people, and start the semester strong.
We’re here to help you top up your cup in the new year - whether that’s boosting your energy, wellbeing, confidence, or making new connections. 💙
This year’s Refreshers Week promises to be extra exciting, with trips into the city, crafty workshops, and the Refreshers Fair on Wednesday 28th January 2026. There’s something for everyone, so don’t miss out!
❄️ Enjoy Your Winter Break
We hope you have a safe, relaxing, and well-deserved festive break. Whether you are staying in Liverpool or heading home, take care of yourself and we can’t wait to welcome you back for 2026! 💙
