What help is available to me?
Extenuating Circumstances and problem solving your issues
If you are having difficulties, please use the Extenuating Circumstances process so that we can assist you in problem solving and seeing what assistance can be given. This includes if you are struggling with computer equipment, broadband access or other issues.
We urge you to make contact with us if you are having difficulties. We are very aware that simply giving you an extension may not solve your problems, in which case we will consider what else we might be able to do on a case by case basis to help you.
The EC process is there to support you if you are struggling to complete an assessment or a number of assessments due to circumstances that are outside of your control. You can access the EC forms by clicking Extenuating Circumstances Application (office.com) and using your student log in details.
If this link does not work on your browser then you can access the form by going on Blackboard and then onto the HE Info Hub. Follow these directions by clicking on:
Alternatively, you are able to email the central HE Team directly at he@btc.ac.uk. If you email us directly please can you include: your name, BTC student number, your course, year, the name and module of the assignment, the module tutor, the original deadline and your reasons for requesting a deadline extension or asking for help.
If you are a UWE student, you can request of an extension of up to 5 days using this process. For longer extensions you should submit requests directly to the university in line with their normal process available through their website.
Please note that you cannot apply for an EC if the assignment deadline is more than 6 weeks away. But if you are anticipating problems that we might be able to help you solve, then knowing in advance is helpful.
HE Bursaries and Hardship Funding
If you are struggling financially, please consider applying for one of the HE Bursaries / Hardship Funding. Application forms are available on the UCS website: https://www.somerset.ac.uk/life/fees-and-funding/
We have reviewed the criteria for obtaining a bursary/ hardship funding since the pandemic. We are being more flexible and are considering applications on a case by case basis. It would therefore help us to understand why you need the bursary, in case we can meet your needs in an alternative way. We have removed the rule that students can only receive a bursary for one year and cannot re-apply in subsequent years. The policy available on the website will be adjusted to reflect the changes. This process will work alongside the problem-solving approach available through the EC process detailed above, to find different ways to support you during this difficult time so that you can continue your studies effectively.
IT Support
If you are having issues with IT, please email the IT helpdesk: itshelpdesk@btc.ac.uk
Wellbeing and Safeguarding Support
If you need help from the Wellbeing Team, information to support your mental health, or feel you need a referral to a counsellor, please contact the Wellbeing Team through one of the following emails:
For emergency safeguarding or wellbeing support call 01278 441247 in office hours, bear with us if your call is forwarded before connection.
For any Safeguarding matters please email staysafe@btc.ac.uk
If you feel a matter cannot wait until the next office hours, try the Children’s Social Care out of hours line on 0300 123 23 27, or the police on 999, and email staysafe@btc.ac.uk to report what you have done.
How can I access books and journals?
Access to Online Library Resources
The Learning Resources Service provides access to a wide range of online resources 24/7 to save you a trip to the campus to collect printed books if this trip is not essential.
E-books are available via the Heritage Library catalogue; online resources, such as e-journals and research databases, are available via the Blackboard, BTC Libraries page.
Scanning Service to Support Your Study
Library staff are also providing an electronic article/book chapter scanning service in line with copyright regulations. Please contact library staff for any queries:
Or via the Live Chat which is open Monday – Friday 8.30 – 4.30pm (closed 12.30 - 1.30pm). Off-line messages can be left with your email address, and library staff will contact you when the Live Chat service resumes.
Access to Printed Library Resources
On those occasions when access to printed books is necessary, Higher Education (HE) students have an option to reserve and collect their printed books.
Reserving Printed Books
Books can only be collected from the campus at which they are held. Please check the Heritage library catalogue for book locations, prior to placing a reservation.
To reserve a book, please email us via:
lrcenquiries@btc.ac.uk (for books held at Bridgwater and Cannington)
tauntonlrc@btc.ac.uk (for books held at Taunton)
You can also use the Live Chat for any additional queries in relation to this service.
What happens about assessing my qualification and will this take account of any impact from the pandemic?
We are doing all we can to support you in your studies and to work closely with our University Partners/Awarding Organisations, so do please make contact through the emails above if you are having any difficulties.
Please stay safe and well.