- High-pressure religious groups
- Faith groups at university
- Why can high-pressure groups be harmful?
- Warning signs
- When students may be more vulnerable
- Steps you can take
- Where to get help?
High-pressure religious groups
What to watch for and where to get support
- Some religious groups use high-pressure tactics to recruit students.
- If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to ask questions or seek advice.
Faith groups at university
It’s normal to want to feel welcomed and belong at university.
You may receive invitations to many clubs, societies, and faith groups. Most are positive and respectful of your choices. However, some groups may use persistent or pressurising tactics.
Some faith groups are official UH societies linked to the Students’ Union, while others are independent organisations.
If you’re unsure about a group, the Chaplaincy can offer support and information to help you make a free and informed choice.
Why can high-pressure groups be harmful?
These groups may:
- Isolate you from friends and family
- Pressure you to give up control over your decisions
- Use guilt or shame to influence you
- Cause problems with studies, relationships, or career
- Discourage questions or independent thinking
Warning signs
You may want to be cautious if:
- The group claims to have “all the answers”
- Members are expected to agree with everything
- You are quickly asked to recruit new members
- You feel guilty, ashamed, or unworthy
- Meetings are expected to come before your studies
- Your family or previous beliefs are criticised
- Questions or doubts are discouraged
- Leadership is very controlling or unequal
- You are invited to events or retreats without clear details
When students may be more vulnerable
Recruiters may approach students when they are going through a difficult time.
For example if you are:
- Feeling lonely or left out socially
- Upset after family or relationship problems
- Grieving or going through a difficult change
- Struggling with studies or grades
- Feeling pressure to succeed
During these times, it’s important to talk to someone you trust.
Steps you can take
- Talk to someone outside the group such as a long-standing friend, lecturer, parent, counsellor or a chaplain
- Ask questions and trust your instincts
- It’s okay to say “No thanks”
- Think carefully before attending meetings
- Be cautious about sharing personal information
⚠️ Do not give your address or phone number to people you don’t know well.
Where to get help?
If you’re unsure about a group or want to talk about faith or belonging, support is available.
Chaplaincy Team
📧 chaplain@herts.ac.uk
📱 07702 442 696 (office hours)
Assistant Chaplains:
Radley Taylor and Grace Kanyonganise-Bhobho
You can also find the Chaplaincy through the Ask Herts app.
Instagram: @uhchaplain
Blog: unichaplain.wordpress.com