Marvin OnumonuUniversity of Bedfordshire has received the University Mental Health Charter Award from Student Minds, the UK’s student mental health charity.
The award followed an assessment and review by an independent panel, which agreed to upgrade the university’s status to full award holder.
The panel highlighted the university’s ongoing commitment to student wellbeing, despite financial pressures in the sector.
It noted the recruitment of new mental health staff, improved monitoring of routine outcome measures, and targeted engagement of male students through sport.
Additional academic support roles and tutors have been introduced to help reduce academic stress.
The panel also pointed to the use of MyEngagement data to spot early signs of student disengagement and support timely interventions.
Health and wellbeing team podcasts were highlighted as an accessible mental health resource for students and may be used as a case study for other institutions.
Professor Rebecca Bunting, vice chancellor at the University of Bedfordshire, said: “We are proud to have achieved the University Mental Health Charter Award, which recognises the meaningful progress we’ve made in embedding a university-wide approach to the positive mental health and wellbeing of all our students and staff.
“This award reflects the commitment of our entire community to creating a supportive, inclusive environment for all, and we remain dedicated to building on this strong foundation.”
