University receives award for commitment to mental health and wellbeing

The University of Huddersfield has been recognised for its commitment to mental health and wellbeing with a University Mental Health Charter (UMHC) Award.

It recognises the University’s dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for both students and staff.

The accolade, from student mental health charity Student Minds, follows a thorough assessment process, with Huddersfield one of five universities to achieve the award this time.

It comes as the University was able to demonstrate significant progress in several key areas, with the final report from assessors showcasing a number of excellent practices that contribute to a positive mental health culture.

One standout initiative was the Ready Steady Study programme, which provides pre-entry transition support to students. Developed in collaboration with the student community, it helps new students acclimatise to university life.

The University's approach to assessment, which focuses on inclusivity and challenge, was also highlighted as an example of excellent practice, ensuring all students have the best chance to succeed. The Huddersfield Differential Attainment Project, which uses data to address inequalities in student progression and attainment, was also singled out as excellent.

Further praise was received for the University’s commitment to external partnerships which further enhance the support available. This includes the Wellbeing Team working closely with the Kirklees Suicide Prevention Team and the University Health Centre to ensure that students have access to comprehensive mental health resources.

The University's commitment to creating an inclusive and accessible campus through initiatives such as accessibility walks and the design of the Jo Cox More in Common Centre, were also recognised as excellent practice.

The report also recognised that the University provides a range of services to support student mental health and wellbeing with a multidisciplinary team of Mental Health Advisors, Wellbeing Advisors, and Counsellors available to assist students. The Health and Wellbeing Academy programme of support, created by Mental Health Nursing students, has the “potential to be sector-leading excellent practice”, it said.

Professor Jane Owen-Lynch, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Teaching and Learning, commented: "We are incredibly proud to receive the University Mental Health Charter Award. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire university community in prioritising mental health and wellbeing. We remain committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all our students and staff."

Matt Mills, Director of Student Services commented: "This award highlights the significant progress we have made in enhancing our mental health support services. Initiatives like the Ready Steady Study programme and the Huddersfield Differential Attainment Project demonstrate our commitment to inclusivity and student success. To be one of only 15 universities in the UK who have achieved this award is a testament to the hard work of our whole team and recognises our whole institution approach to supporting both student and staff mental health.”

Student Minds encourages all universities to adopt a whole–university approach to mental health and become places that promote the mental health and wellbeing of all members of the university community.

The charity’s UMHC Award is an accreditation scheme to recognise good practice and support ongoing development. The University of Huddersfield first joined the UMHC Programme when it launched in 2021 and is now among 15 universities that have successfully achieved the Award.