Leeds Beckett University recognised for commitment to improving mental health and wellbeing

Leeds Beckett has received the University Mental Health Charter Award, created by Student Minds alongside staff and students to shape a future in which everyone in higher education can thrive.
The assessors were impressed with Leeds Beckett’s whole-university approach to improving mental health and wellbeing, and noted excellent practice including:

• The introduction of school-based wellbeing practitioners, which support “a culture of confidence within academic colleagues around mental health and wellbeing and reducing the chances of students falling through the gaps”.
• Creating a positive culture around staff wellbeing through development conversations and providing a diverse programme of health and wellness sessions.
• Colleagues feeling connected to each other, trusted and valued.
• A student-centred approach to assessment promoting a more inclusive and engaging environment for students.

As well as identifying good practice, the accreditation scheme requires universities to create and deliver an action plan to support ongoing improvements. This will include: 

• Increased collaboration between Student Services and the Students’ Union;
• Further developing the approach to embed wellbeing workshops into academic timetables; and
• Tackling loneliness through a whole-university approach to social integration and social connectedness.

Leeds Beckett University Vice-Chancellor, Professor Peter Slee said:“Mental wellbeing is just as important as physical wellbeing. 

“We’re working hard to create a truly healthy place to work and study so to read such positive feedback - especially from our own staff and students - is incredibly encouraging. 

“This Award recognises the great strides we’re taking together. More importantly, it now provides the challenge and roadmap to create and maintain positive wellbeing across the Leeds Beckett community.”

A spokesperson for Leeds Beckett University Students’ Union added:''Ensuring the mental health and wellbeing of our students is absolutely crucial to providing a great university experience. Taking part in the University Mental Health Charter has allowed us to work together with Leeds Beckett University to identify how we can make improvements, as well as recognising all of the positive initiatives already in place.

"A key part of improving student mental health involves tackling the root causes of poor wellbeing, and ensuring the right support is in place when needed. We're pleased we had the opportunity to represent the student voice in order to influence positive change throughout this process.''

Read more about the University Mental Health Charter Award.