Mental Health Charter Programme

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Bath Spa University joins a nationwide programme to improve approaches to mental health

Bath Spa University has proudly joined a new Mental Health Charter Programme developed by Student Minds, a national charity supporting students’ mental health.

The charter aims to make mental health and wellbeing an industry-wide priority, by sharing good practice, enabling cultural change and supporting the work of universities to improve the mental health and wellbeing of their staff and student communities.

The new UK-wide practice sharing network will also give access to events and opportunities to come together to improve their approach to student and staff mental health.

“We are very proud to be a part of this initiative,” Vice-Chancellor Professor Sue Rigby said. “The mental health and wellbeing of our staff and students is incredibly important, now more than ever. By taking part in this charter it will ensure we are evaluating our policies and procedures, sharing best practice and prioritising good mental health. 

“This is a real, joined-up commitment to creating an environment to share best practice and a culture that prioritises mental health for the entire university community.”

“The pandemic has only emphasised the vital importance and complexity of mental health difficulties of our students and staff. By being part of the charter, we hope to take an important step to ensure our students and staff remain supported throughout this difficult time, and beyond. 

Marianne Evans, Bath Spa Students’ Union President said, “It's great to see Bath Spa University signed up to the University Mental Health Charter Programme. The pandemic has been detrimental to student's mental health, so prioritising accessible and reliable mental health services is now more important than ever. Siân Bentley, my fellow Officer and Vice-President of Community and Welfare is working closely with the wellbeing team to ensure students are a part of this process. I am pleased to see the University making this commitment to support students".

The University will also work towards the Charter Award, an accreditation scheme, which recognises universities that demonstrate excellent practice.

The Charter Programme was developed in consultation with staff and students, with initial funding from the UPP Foundation and the Office for Students and further funding from Jisc and the Charlie Watkins Foundation.

The Charter Programme was piloted at the University of Derby, Hartpury University and Glasgow Caledonian University in 2020.