Health Sciences University brings students and staff together for mental health and wellbeing events
Health Sciences University (HSU) has brought students and staff together across its Bournemouth and London campuses for a series of events supporting its work with the University Mental Health Charter and marking World Mental Health Day.
The events included discussions, workshops and wellbeing activities, giving students and colleagues the chance to contribute ideas, connect with others and learn more about the support available across the University.
Led by student mental health charity Student Minds, the University Mental Health Charter provides a framework to help universities take a whole-university approach to mental health and wellbeing.
Putting the University Mental Health Charter into practice
At HSU’s Bournemouth Campus on 29 September, students and colleagues explored what the Charter means for the University and how its principles can be reflected in everyday university life.
Through presentations, discussions and workshops, participants considered the Charter’s five domains: Support, Learn, Live, Work and Enabling Themes. Students shared their experiences and perspectives, while colleagues discussed how existing approaches could be developed further.
The event concluded with participants making individual pledges to support mental health and wellbeing.
The conversation continued at HSU’s London Campus on 1 October, where colleagues contributed to a pledge tree under the theme One pledge, one community, one growing tree.
The tree was subsequently moved into the University’s teaching clinic, inviting patients and members of the wider community to add their own pledges.
Marking World Mental Health Day
In the lead-up to World Mental Health Day on 10 October, HSU organised further activities across both campuses, encouraging students and staff to take time out, connect with others and focus on their wellbeing.
At Bournemouth, students took part in bracelet-making, mindfulness colouring, crafts and games. Information was also available about support through HSU’s Student Services and external community organisations, covering areas such as mental health, financial wellbeing and practical assistance.
At the London Campus, activities included arts and crafts, games and opportunities to share tips for staying well. Students and colleagues were also joined by Rosie the therapy dog, with wellbeing resources, refreshments and informal opportunities to socialise.
The activities offered a relaxed setting for students to spend time together, while highlighting the different ways they can access support during their studies.
Supporting wellbeing across HSU
HSU’s work with the University Mental Health Charter is supported by five working groups aligned with the Charter’s domains. These bring students and colleagues together to review existing provision and identify areas for further development.
The recent events have brought more students and colleagues into these discussions, helping to inform HSU’s ongoing work to support mental health and wellbeing.
Find out more about HSU’s work with the University Mental Health Charter
