British Law & Culture

British law

On July 1st 2007, the Government introduced a new law to make it illegal to smoke in virtually all enclosed public places in the UK.

What this means to you if you smoke:

• You are not allowed to smoke in any university building - including the Students' Union
• If you are caught ignoring this law and smoking on University property you may receive a fine of £50 and face university disciplinary action
• You are not allowed to smoke in any enclosed public space off campus such as bars, restuarants, nightclubs, bus and train shelters and stations

• If you choose to ignore this law and are caught smoking in any of these public spaces you will be given a £50 fine each time you are caught

Note - if you live in University halls of residence you are permitted to smoke in your own room as long as it is a designated smoking room and your doors are closed.

All other bedrooms and communal areas such as; laundries, wardens lodge, staircases, corridors, kitchens, lounge areas and entrance areas are covered by this law and therefore you are not permitted to smoke in these areas.

For more information on the UK smoking ban please contact the Students' Union.

Culture shock

Coming to a new country can be an unsettling experience. The new term is full of activities. You will make new friends, eat new food and hear new languages. The UK is now a multicultural society where everyone should have equality of opportunity, however, racism does exist and if you are unfortunate to experience it, it is best to speak to someone about it.

As things become more settled and you start to adjust to your new environment, you may begin to experience some loneliness and sadness because you are away from your family and friends.

You can visit us in the Students' Union, speak to the counsellors in the Student Centre or speak to your tutor.  Loneliness is a natural feeling experienced by home as well as international students. It is extremely important that you do not isolate yourself.

These feelings of homesickness will gradually disappear as you become used to your new way of life.

British people are friendly, although your first impression may be that they tend to be reserved at first. In fact, people living in the North of England are considered to be the friendliest! Bolton is also a multi cultural town comprising of various British ethnic minority groups. Men and women mix easily in daily life and often work and socialise together.  Women are independent and accustomed to entering public places unaccompanied.

Sexual attitudes may also be different from those in your own country. You may find them much more liberal than those you are used to. You are free to live according to your own personal standards and should not feel pressurised into adopting those of your fellow students.