We at Cambridge SU and the Council of JCR Presidents are devastated by the loss of Professor Jason Arday. We would like to extend our condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and to every student who is grieving him.
Professor Arday’s appointment as the youngest Black professor at the University of Cambridge was historic and represented a significant milestone for Black representation at the University. He used his voice and platform to speak about access to higher education for all, and was an inspiration to many who will dearly miss him.
Professor Arday discussed in his resignation statement the impact of ‘relentless accusations, speculation and public commentary’ on himself and his family in the time since his appointment. It should not be overlooked that he was subjected to a disturbing level of public scrutiny. We ask that following his passing, all should refrain from speculating about these matters, as they are currently under formal investigation by the University.
We also ask that his family and loved ones' request to be left in peace is respected through this difficult time, as they grieve the loss of a beloved father, partner, brother, and son.
To anyone affected by this shared grief, please reach out for support available in Cambridge. This may include your College tutor and pastoral support staff, the University Counselling Service and the Student Advice Service, which are all available both in and out of term time.
Rest in peace, Jason Arday.
Sources of Support
Immediate support
- NHS 111 (Option 2): 24/7 Mental Health Crisis support in Cambridge/UK
- Samaritans (Call 116 123): Free, 24/7 confidential listening
- Shout Crisis Text Line (Text SHOUT to 85258): Free, 24/7 UK text support if you are too overwhelmed to speak on the phone
- Papyrus HOPELINE247 (Call 0800 068 4141): 24/7 confidential suicide prevention advice for young people
Cambridge University Support
- Cambridge SU Student Advice Service: www.cambridgesu.co.uk/advice/student-advice-service
- Cambridge General Student Support Guide: studentsupport.cam.ac.uk/get-support
- Cambridge Crisis Support Guide: studentsupport.cam.ac.uk/crisis-support-and-information
- Cambridge Nightline (Call 01223 744 444): Student-run, confidential listening service (Note: check if open out of term)
- Your College Wellbeing Coordinator/Nurse/Tutor: (Please check your specific college website for their direct email)
Black, Disabled & LGBTQ+ Mental Health
- Black Minds Matter UK: Free mental health services by professional Black therapists. (blackmindsmatteruk.com)
- Black Advisory Hub (Cambridge): blackadvisory.hub.cam.ac.uk
- Sense (Disability Mental Health): sense.org.uk
- Switchboard LGBT+ (Call 0800 0119 100): UK-based safe space for LGBTQ+ individuals to discuss emotional well-being
- The Trevor Project: thetrevorproject.org
- Students may also request a BME Advisor through the SU Student Advice Service