SupportU at Reading University Freshers’ Fair
Yesterday we had the pleasure of attending Reading University Freshers’ Fair – and what a brilliant day it was! The atmosphere was buzzing with energy a new students poured into campus, eager to explore, connect, and find out what support is available in their new town.
For us at SupportU, it was a fantastic opportunity not only to introduce ourselves to students, but also to listen. We ran a short survey to better understand the kinds of services young people are looking for – and the results were both inspiring and encouraging.
What students told us
The top areas of interest that stood out were:
Sports groups – where people can stay active, healthy, and connect with like-minded peers in a safe space.
Mental health support – a priority for many, showing just how important it is to have safe, accessible services in place.
Social groups – a chance to meet new people, make friends, and build community, especially for those moving to Reading for the first time.
Youth services – support that empowers young people to grow in confidence and find belonging.
Trans support services – highlighting the importance of safe, inclusive spaces for trans and non-binary students.
It was clear that students value connection, wellbeing, and inclusivity. These are exactly the principles we champion at SupportU, and it was great to see such a strong alignment with what we already do.
Growing SupportU in Reading
As we grow across Berkshire, Reading will benefit from our services. The survey responses today have given us valuable insight into how we can tailor what we offer to meet the needs of students and young people in the area. Whether through new social groups, more mental health-focused support, or dedicated trans services, we’re excited about what’s to come.
A huge thank you to everyone who stopped by our stall, shared their thoughts, and took the time to chat. We can’t wait to build on this energy and bring more of SupportU to Reading.