New chair aims to develop care for students

Bath Spa University vice-chancellor professor Sue Rigby has been appointed as chair of the Student Minds trustee board.

Student Minds, the UK student mental health charity, works with students, service users, professionals and academics to develop new and innovative ways to improve the mental health of students.

Professor Rigby, pictured, who has been on the board since September, will provide accountability, oversight and robust governance to help the charity achieve its goals to improve university mental health.

She said: “I’m delighted to be stepping into the position of chair of the trustee board for Student Minds. This is such an important charity that offers vital support to students and their universities.

“The journey through university is a life-changing one and it is essential that students have the support they need to achieve their potential. I am thrilled to be able to help Student Minds to grow and thrive.”

Dr Nicola Byrom, founder of Student Minds and senior lecturer in psychology said: “I started working on the idea of Student Minds 11 years ago. It has been a privilege to see the charity grow and develop.

“This success is thanks to the many phenomenal people who have devoted time and energy towards the ambition of supporting better student mental health. Sue is one of these people.

“Working with her over the past few years has been an inspiration. She has the skills and experience to ensure the charity builds strong foundations to continue supporting students for decades to come.”