UNiDAYS, the world-leading student verification platform, has today published data revealing new insights into student loneliness in the UK.
The survey – gathered from over 1000 students1 as they head to the end of the first semester of University – found that 85%2 of students felt lonely this semester, with 60%3 saying they typically feel more lonely around Christmas.
The data revealed that focusing on hobbies is the top way students currently deal with loneliness (55%), followed by reaching out to friends (54%) and relaxing (38%). The survey also found that nearly a third (32%) of students believe access to more in-person events at university would have helped alleviate feelings of loneliness, with 19% wishing there were more peer support programmes and access to a mental resilience app.
The new data comes as UNiDAYS announces a new partnership with Nottingham Forest Community Trust, the charitable arm of Nottingham Forest FC, and Carecoins, a mental health platform, to launch “The Christmas Club’. This new initiative is designed to raise awareness of youth loneliness and offer support and resources to help students and young people experiencing loneliness or vulnerability during the festive period.
Taking place on Wednesday, 17th December at Nottingham Forest’s City Ground, the event will host 200 young people aged between 16 and 24 from the local area. It will feature talks from Nottingham Forest players and mental health champions, who will share insight into their own mental health journeys and offer advice on tackling feelings of loneliness.
Attendees will receive well-being support from Carecoins throughout the event, including a free mental health consultation. They will also each receive a Christmas goodie bag, as well as the chance to win a UNiDAYS giveaway made up of donations from their brand partners.
The event supports UNiDAYS’ mission to support and empower young people. As a Nottingham-founded business, the new initiative recognises the company’s roots and commitment to its home city of Nottingham.
Nottingham Forest Community Trust is the first trust associated with the Premier League to roll out this initiative, which, if successful, has the potential to be replicated across all 20 Premier League clubs in 2026, reaching even more young people across the UK.
Alex Smith, Head of Wellbeing, Earning and Learning at UNiDAYS, said: “Christmas can be a difficult time for many young people, especially those who may be feeling isolated, lonely or struggling with their mental health. It’s important for young people to know that they are not alone in these experiences – which is why UNiDAYS’ partnership with Nottingham Forest Community Trust and CareCoins matters so much.
By raising awareness and providing young people with the support and tools to help them speak about facing loneliness this Christmas, we’re helping them build their confidence and creating an environment where they feel understood, connected and better equipped to navigate challenges.”
Colin Eley, Health and Wellbeing Manager at Nottingham Forest Community Trust, said:“We know the immense power that Nottingham Forest, Nottingham Forest Community Trust and The City Ground have in bringing people together. This partnership is vital because it uses that power to create a safe, supportive space for young people who are feeling the effects of loneliness.
By focusing on connection and providing practical tools, we are showing them they are not alone and strengthening the mental resilience of our whole community.
“Nathan Shearman, Managing Director of Carecoins, said: “Young people across the UK are facing a perfect storm of increased isolation, loneliness and reduced access to services, leading to more issues with mental health than ever before. We’re proud to be tackling this issue head on, helping create a unique event that empowers young people across Nottingham to address the challenges of isolation and loneliness.”
