Find your network as an estranged student

Building a support network when you don't have one at home

Whether you’re estranged from family, care-experienced, a first-generation student, or feeling disconnected from where you came from, university offers the chance to build a strong support network of people who understand you, support you, and grow with you.

How to find your people at Leeds

'finding your people' doesn’t have to mean instantly forming a big friendship group. Often, it starts with shared spaces, shared interests, or shared experiences.

Societies and student communities

Leeds University Union has hundreds of societies covering topics such as hobbies, cultures, faiths, academic interests, volunteering and identity‑based groups.

You can try out a range of societies to find the right fit for you. 

If you’re feeling unsure, try:

• Going to events advertised as social, beginner‑friendly or low commitment

• Attending more than once - connection often builds with familiarity

• Starting with one society rather than overwhelming yourself with lots

Mentoring and peer support

Leeds offers mentoring and peer support opportunities where students connect through shared experience rather than surface‑level small talk.

These spaces are especially valuable if you find it hard to open up in group settings, want guidance from someone who’s “been there” or are simply looking for understanding, not advice.

Life in halls and Residence Life 

Residence Life events are held throughout the year for you are designed to be welcoming, informal, and low‑pressure.

You don’t need to arrive with friends; many students attend alone and have a great time! 

Support for you

Leeds has services designed specifically for students whose university journey comes with additional challenges.

The Plus Programme

The Plus Programme supports students who may be care‑experienced, estranged from family, or from other under‑represented backgrounds.

There is a termly lunch you can attend as an estranged or care experienced student to meet other students with similar experiences to you. 

Beyond practical help, the Plus Programme often provides reassurance that your circumstances are recognised and valid.

Embrace who you are

Feeling “different” from your peers - financially, culturally, emotionally, or in terms of life experience, is something many students quietly carry.

While it can make connection feel harder, it can also become a source of strength.

Look for common ground and embracing differences

You don’t need matching backgrounds to build meaningful friendships. Shared interests, humour, values, or simply living through the same week of deadlines can be enough.

Try focusing on simple things such as one thing you both enjoy, one experience you’re both navigating one small routine you can share (coffee after lectures, weekly walks, society events)

You can also embrace your differences, learning new things from one another based on your different lived experiences. 

Friendship doesn’t have a deadline. Some bonds form quickly; others take time. Feeling calm and safe with someone is just as important as feeling close so prioritise finding people you genuinely get on with to ensure you have the best experience at University possible.