Bubble wrap and puppies for anxious students at the University of Leicester

The University of Leicester's student union is set to offer stressed out students bubble wrap and dog petting sessions to help them relax as exam season kicks off.

The union claims the "instant gratification" of popping bubble wrap can help anxious students cope with stress and reduce tension.

They have ordered hundreds of metres of bubble wrap and plan to install "popping" stations on campus. Puppies will also be brought in, with students paying £1 to pet them to relieve stress.

The union said it was also offering more conventional support during exam season, including free cups of tea, dedicated quiet revision spaces, longer opening hours at the student bar and board games for those who want a break from revision and exams.

Michael Rubin, education officer and president-elect of the University of Leicester's Students' Union, said: "Trying to reduce stress through providing revision help through our Education Unit, petting puppies and working with Nightline to hand out free tea to keep energy levels up are all really important, positive things for us to do."