The good news is that homesickness almost always fades as students build routines and connections. In the meantime, one of the most effective things you can do is transform your student flat into a space that genuinely feels like yours.

Acknowledge How You’re Feeling

Homesickness is not a weakness. Allowing yourself to feel those emotions, rather than pushing through them, is an important part of adjusting. Missing home simply means you have strong connections to the people and places you’ve come from.

If feelings become persistent or start affecting your studies, Fresh’s Student Assistance Programme, delivered in partnership with Health Assured, offers free 24/7 confidential support covering mental health and emotional wellbeing.

Personalise Your Space

A room that reflects your personality is far easier to relax in than a blank, institutional one. The challenge in student accommodation is doing this without causing damage, but there are plenty of deposit-safe ways to make your space feel like home.

Photographs and memories. Printing photos and displaying them on a pinboard, strung along fairy lights, or placed in frames on your desk are among the most effective ways to bring familiarity into a new room.

Lighting. The overhead lighting in most student rooms is rarely flattering. A warm bedside lamp or a string of fairy lights can completely change the atmosphere. 

Soft furnishings. A rug, a throw, and a few cushions make a significant difference to how a room feels. Bold bedding is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to inject personality.

Plants. Low-maintenance options such as cacti or snake plants bring life into a room and can actively reduce stress. If you’re worried about upkeep, a faux plant works just as well visually.

Scent. Reed diffusers or plug-in fragrance options (open flames are not permitted in student accommodation) can make a room feel familiar and calming. Bringing a scent from home during the early weeks can provide genuine comfort.

Build New Routines

Homesickness often intensifies in unstructured time. Establishing consistent sleep patterns, regular mealtimes, and a set study schedule provides stability that makes an unfamiliar environment feel more manageable. Even small routines, like the route you walk to lectures or the day you do your laundry, can help a new environment start to feel settled.

Stay Connected

Regular contact with friends and family at home is important. However, long daily calls can sometimes intensify homesickness rather than ease it. Scheduling shorter, regular check-ins gives you something to look forward to whilst encouraging you to engage with your new surroundings too.

Invest in the Community Around You

Social connection is consistently the fastest route through homesickness. Keeping your door open, joining a society, attending events, or simply making tea for your flatmates are small steps that build meaningful relationships over time.

Fresh properties are designed with the community in mind. Regular residents’ events, shared social spaces, and on-site teams who genuinely know their residents help students feel part of something from day one, making the process of settling in feel far less daunting.

A Note for Parents

If your child is struggling, the most helpful thing you can do is listen and normalise. Encouraging them to engage with their new environment, rather than coming home at the first opportunity, gives them the space to build the connections and routines that will help them settle. Most students find that, given a little time, university accommodation starts to feel like a second home.

In Summary

Homesickness is a natural part of starting university, and it passes. By personalising your space, building routines, staying connected in a balanced way, and investing in the community around you, your student flat can become far more than somewhere to sleep. With the right environment and support, it becomes a genuine home.

To find out more about Fresh’s approach to student wellbeing or explore our student accommodation locations.

The post Handling Homesickness: Things you can do to make your university flat feel like home appeared first on Int EU Flex Blog.

Things to do in Liverpool to improve your wellbeing

Moving to a new city as a student is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. New routines, new faces, and the pressure to balance studying with everything else can take its toll. That’s why looking after your wellbeing at university is just as important as settling into lectures and deadlines. 

Liverpool is such a wonderful and diverse place, with its mix of green spaces, coastlines, independent shops, and affordable activities. It offers plenty of ways for students to slow down and reset. 

If you’re living in student accommodation in Liverpool with Fresh Living, many of these wellbeing activities are right on your doorstep. 
 

Try a Floating Sauna at Wyld Sauna 

For something a little different, Wyld Sauna offers a floating sauna experience for just £10 an hour. It’s a brilliant way to disconnect from screens, warm up and give your mind a break. Cold water, heat therapy and calm surroundings can do wonders for stress, especially during those busy study periods. 

This is a great option if you’re living at Benson Yard or The Lantern, both within easy reach of Liverpool’s waterfront.
 

Walk Around Sefton Park

Sometimes, the simplest wellbeing habits are the most effective. Sefton Park is one of Liverpool’s most loved green spaces, and it’s completely free. Whether it’s a long walk, a solo reset with headphones in or a catch-up with friends, spending time here helps clear your head. Perfect for students living near Lark Lane or South Liverpool. 

Perfect for students living at Calico or Europa, especially if you’re near Lark Lane or South Liverpool
 

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Explore Lark Lane Cafes

Lark Lane is a student favourite for a reason. It’s relaxed, creative and full of independent spots that feel welcoming whether you’re popping in alone or meeting friends. 

• Grab a pastry at Lunko
• Enjoy a slower morning at Sunday
• Go for a classic coffee at Bold Street Coffee 
• Try something different at Lucy in the Sky or Fika

Fitness Classes at Barry’s Liverpool 

If structured exercise helps your mental health, Barry’s offers high-energy fitness classes on the top floor of Flannels, right in the city centre. With student-friendly intro offers, including two classes for £16, it’s a great option if you want motivation and community in one place. 

Students at Benson Yard and The Lantern, can walk here easily, making it perfect for a quick post-lecture workout.
 

Visit Formby Beach and Nearby Coastlines

Liverpool’s coastline is one of its hidden wellbeing perks. A trip to Formby Beach or other nearby coastal spots is perfect when you need space, fresh air, and a change of scenery.
If you don’t have a car, Formby is easily accessible by train from Liverpool Central. Long walks, sea air, and open views can help reset your nervous system and put busy weeks into perspective, especially during study breaks or weekends.
 

Wander Albert Dock and Pier Head 

For something closer to home, Albert Dock and Pier Head are perfect for a related walk with plenty to see. Historic buildings, water views and open spaces make this a calming place to explore, especially during quieter mornings or evenings. 
 

Creative Workshops

Creativity is a powerful tool for well-being. Liverpool has plenty of hands-on workshops where you can try something new without pressure. Bag charm making at Dorothy & J or cake decorating at Yaska Workshop. These experiences are great for stepping away from academic thinking and doing something purely for enjoyment. 
 

Hot Water Comedy Club

Laughter is an underrated wellbeing boost. Hot Water Comedy Club is one of Liverpool’s most popular comedy venues, offering affordable shows and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great way to unwind with friends, do something social and switch off for a few hours.

This is easy to reach from any of the Fresh Living apartments but especially good for those at Benson Yard or The Lantern.
 

Cinema trip to Cineworld 4DK, Speke

When you need full escapism, a cinema trip can be a perfect reset. Cineworld Speke offers 4DX screenings that turn films into immersive experiences. It’s a fun way to unwind with friends and take your mind off deadlines. 

From Calico or Europa, this is an excellent option for a day out with friends or a well-deserved study break treat.
 

Wellbeing Starts at Home 

Living somewhere you feel safe, supported, and comfortable plays a huge role in mental well-being. Fresh Living student accommodation in Liverpool is designed to make everyday life easier, from secure buildings, inclusive bills, to welcoming communal spaces. 

When your home base feels settled, it becomes much easier to enjoy everything the city has to offer.

Liverpool is a city that supports student wellbeing in simple, everyday ways. From green spaces and coastlines to creative workshops and cosy cafes, there are countless opportunities to slow down and look after yourself. 

University life isn’t just about studying; it’s about building routines, creating a life that feels balanced and actually having fun. 

The post Things to do in Liverpool to prioritise your wellbeing appeared first on Int EU Flex Blog.

We all know that shopping for university can be stressful, days full of busy shops, long queues, and one big question: what do I actually need?

And if you're traveling far for your studies, it can be a hassle to move everything with you.

That is why we have decided to offer our residents access to the Fresh shop. A one-stop online shop that will allow you to buy the essentials you want, including bedding, kitchen, and cleaning supplies, and have it delivered to your door or accommodation. Allowing you more time to go shopping for the fun bits like potted plants and teabags.

We offer different complete packs including kitchen packs, bedding packs, and a complete pack. There are plenty of extras you can add to your order, including air fryers for your chicken nuggets and blenders for your morning protein-packed, green-filled, vitamin-fibre smoothies.
 

Our complete student pack has everything we recommend every student will need, which includes:

• Saucepans with lids
• Frying pan with lid
• Oven tray
• Stainless-steel cutlery set
• Dinner set
• 5 Piece utensils set– slotted spoon, slotted turner, masher, solid spoon, ladle.
• Cheese grater
• Can opener
• Kitchen scissors
• Stainless steel colander
• Wooden chopping board
• Utility knife
• Tea towels- twin pack
• Double oven glove
• Duvet 10.5 tog
• Twin pack pillows – 500gsm
• Fitted sheet, white, 180TC
• Duvet set, including 2 pillowcases, 180tc white

Then, if you want any extras to help you feel at home, feel free to add any bedroom, kitchen, or cleaning supplies to your order.
 

Please check your residents' team for more information on what your accommodation already has. We wouldn't want you doubling up on kettles!
 

If you have any questions relating to the Fresh shop? Feel free to reach out to our handy partners at Unpacked via email at [email protected]. They’ll be able to help with all your questions!
 

The post 10 Ways to Keep Your Student Kitchen Looking Brand New appeared first on Int EU Flex Blog.

The Charismatic Enigma

At first glance, the red panda appears as if nature dipped a fox in the palette of a sunset. With its lush russet fur, masked face, and bushy ringed tail, it embodies a unique blend of traits from various animal families. This amalgamation of features has earned it endearing monikers such as "firefox" and "lesser panda," yet it remains a species unto itself, occupying a taxonomic family all its own – Ailuridae.

A Bamboo Connoisseur

While its appearance may evoke thoughts of its bamboo-munching cousin, the red panda's diet is primarily herbivorous, with bamboo comprising the majority of its meals. However, its culinary repertoire extends beyond bamboo shoots and leaves to include fruits, berries, insects, and the occasional egg. This varied diet showcases the adaptability and resourcefulness of this remarkable creature, allowing it to thrive in the challenging terrain of its mountainous habitat.

Arboreal Acrobats

One of the most striking features of the red panda is its arboreal prowess. Equipped with semi-retractable claws and a long, bushy tail for balance, it navigates the towering canopy with unmatched agility. From the lofty heights of its treetop domain, it forages for food, evades predators, and even takes refuge in tree hollows or nests constructed of twigs and leaves. This arboreal lifestyle not only provides protection but also affords the red panda a panoramic view of its surroundings, allowing it to survey its domain with keen eyes.

Conservation Concerns

Despite its undeniable charm, the red panda faces a myriad of threats to its survival. Habitat loss due to deforestation, human encroachment, and poaching for the illegal wildlife trade are among the primary factors contributing to its declining numbers. Additionally, climate change poses a growing threat, altering the delicate balance of the ecosystems upon which the red panda depends. As stewards of this planet, it is incumbent upon us to take proactive measures to safeguard the future of this enchanting species.

Guardians of the Red Panda

Fortunately, dedicated conservation efforts are underway to protect the red panda and its habitat. Conservation organizations, local communities, and governments are collaborating to establish protected areas, implement anti-poaching measures, and promote sustainable practices that benefit both people and wildlife. Through education, research, and advocacy, we can raise awareness about the plight of the red panda and inspire action to ensure its continued survival for generations to come.

A Call to Action

As we marvel at the beauty and wonder of the red panda, let us also recognize our role as stewards of the natural world. By supporting conservation initiatives, reducing our ecological footprint, and advocating for policies that prioritize environmental protection, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of red pandas and countless other species facing similar challenges. Together, we can ensure that the forests echo with the playful antics of these charismatic enigmas for centuries to come.

In the realm of the red panda, amidst the whispering bamboo and dappled sunlight, lies a world of enchantment waiting to be discovered. Let us embrace our role as guardians of this precious ecosystem and strive to preserve its beauty and diversity for future generations to cherish and cherish.

The post Beneath the Canopy: Unlocking the Mysteries of the Red Panda appeared first on Int EU Flex Blog.

All-Ireland Pollinator Plan

Since 2021, we have been actively championing the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan (AIPP) – a five-year initiative (2021-2025) dedicated to supporting pollinating insects, particularly bees and enriching biodiversity. Our commitment began with the introduction of pollinator gardens to our communal spaces in 2021 and since then, we have extended our efforts to align all assets wholly managed by I-RES with the AIPP.

We are also partnering with our third-party management agents to ensure the widespread adoption of AIPP initiatives. In 2023, our commitment to the AIPP took tangible form through various resident engagement events. These included planting days, an insightful webinar by AIPP, and a children’s competition to design pollinator signs.

These initiatives not only raised awareness but also garnered participation from many of our residents. Our dedication goes beyond mere introduction; we have actively sought measurable impacts.

The success of our engagement events in 2023 underscores our commitment to fostering environmental awareness within our communities. We strive to make a lasting positive impact on pollinator populations and contribute to the broader goals of biodiversity enhancement within our portfolio.

Green Roofs

Three of our properties have green roofs: Pipers Court features three sedum green roofs, Tara View has 1,225m2 of grass area on its roofs and The School Yard has a warm insulated built-up bituminous green roof. In 2024, we plan to assess smart green roof technologies designed to support the slow gradual release of rainwater during heavy rainfall, thereby alleviating pressure on urban drainage systems.

Swift Boxes

Swifts, categorised as a conservation concern and red-listed bird in Ireland, have witnessed a significant decline of 40 percent over the last 15 years. Thriving in urban environments for nesting, they exhibit a unique behaviour of returning to the same nest site annually. In 2023, we commenced the installation of swift boxes across our Portfolio. This commitment will continue in 2024. Additionally, we are actively engaging with our community partners to expand the installation of these boxes at their sites, to help preserve our precious Swift population.

• Annual data submission to the National Biodiversity Data Centre
• AIPP-hosted information webinar for residents
• Resident planting days
• Increased coverage of pollinator-friendly landscaped areas for each season
• Resident children’s ‘design a pollinator sign’ and ‘grow your own Sunflower’ competitions
• Installed bug hotels
• No Mow May: 1,600m2 grassed areas

The post Nature Friendly Spaces appeared first on Int EU Flex Blog.