Content warning: Death
Stirling University offers support after 18-year-old Ruben Agado was found dead in Alexander Court on Friday, February 7.
Emergency services were called to the first-year accommodation at around 2:20 pm, where witnesses reported seeing paramedics and police enter the halls.
The young man’s death was ruled as unexplained and police do not believe there to be suspicious circumstances.
Professor Kirstie Blair, Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Humanities, issued a University-wide response on February 10, and included the following:
“Having enrolled at Stirling in September 2024, Ruben was a first-year student within the Faculty of Arts and Humanities and was in the early stages of his university journey.
“Ruben will be very sadly missed by our university community.”
Agado’s family told the Courier: “Ruben was a brilliant guy: very funny, very intelligent, and with an intense interest in the world around him.”
Support available for students and staff
A University Spokesperson stated: “Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with family and friends at this difficult time.
“The University is liaising with the police and ensuring that students and staff are fully supported.”
They continue: “The University is in direct contact to provide support. Additionally, our Student Services Hub operate in-person, phone, email and live chat facilities and support is available at all university-managed residences.
”Further details on the mental health and wellbeing support available to you can be found on our dedicated support webpages.
“The Chaplaincy is also available on campus, as a space for quiet reflection.”
A Union spokesperson commented: “This is a very sad time at the University and our thoughts are with the family and friends of those affected. We are working alongside the University to ensure students are fully supported.
“The Students’ Union would remind students that support services can be sought from Student Hub during the week and Spectrum Life 24 hours a day.”
24/7 Student Support helpline
Students can access the free 24/7 student support helpline from Spectrum.Life for emotional wellbeing support.
How to access the student support helpline:
- Call 0800 031 8227 (freephone UK) or 00353 1 518 0277 (international).
- Arrange a call back via WhatsApp by texting ‘Hi’ to 07418 360 780.
- Sign up for Spectrum.Life to arrange a call through their live chat (organisation code: Stirling).
Other Health and Wellbeing Events
Cruse Bereavement Care Scotland: Cruse is a charity that provides practical support and guidance for those bereaved. For more information, see the Cruse website.
The University is also hosting a range of events as part of the BeConnected programme. This includes free meditation on Monday, February 24 and the Big Games Night on Thursday, February 27. Paws Against Stress (Therapets) are also coming to campus on March 1, between 11:30-1:30 pm.
A full list of events can be found here.
Featured Image Credit: University of Stirling
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