According to a study by IPPR, 94% of universities saw an increase in the demand for student services between 2012 and 2017 clearly indicating that mental health is a growing issue that should be at the forefront of all universities’ agendas. The majority of mental health conditions develop before the age of 24, so university students are a high risk group which has led to the number of students dropping out due to mental health-related problems trebling.

The government has recently announced that it will be developing The University Mental Health Charter in response to the staggering increase in student suicides, which is set to go live in 2019/2020. This will highlight the goals and objectives that all UK universities should be meeting to ensure that all students are receiving the help that they need and do not ‘fall through the cracks’. Universities will be given a certificate of excellence if they meet these new healthcare standards.

According to the IPPR, fewer than one third of universities have a clear mental health and wellbeing strategy in place. With the current UK student population reaching over 2.3 million, it is vital that universities develop and implement effective strategies to help and support the wide variety of mental health issues that can present themselves during a student’s time at a HEI.

With increasing pressure from both the government and students themselves for universities to improve mental health provision, it is vital that all universities work together to create a culture of acceptance around mental ill health. Universities must learn to work in partnership with other higher education institutions and healthcare providers to share best practice and improve student services. Failure to provide adequate and compassionate student services within all HEIs could be catastrophic for the mental wellbeing of the student population.

This one day forum will provide attendees with the opportunity to discuss pioneering ways of supporting Higher Education (HE) students and ensuring all those that need help due to mental ill health are receiving the best possible care. Participants will engage with leading policy figures around current report recommendations on subject such as student suicides, LGBTQ+ students and the concerns facing the contemporary generation of students. In addition, best practice case studies will provide examples of innovate methods for engaging students in the national mental health discussion and creating practical, long term strategies for Higher Education Institutions (HEI) to ensure all students can access the help they need.

Confirmed speakers include:
• Dr Ruth Caleb, Chair, Mental Wellbeing in Higher Education Working Group, hosted by Universities UK
• Dr Catherine Hack, Principal Adviser (Learning and Teaching), Advance HE.

Don't forget to quote 'IGEdCentral20' when booking to claim your exclusive 20% discount!

There are three ways to register: call: 0203 770 6580; email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; or click the link below to visit the event website.