Uni’s mental health support

NUMBER OF STUDENTS NEEDING HELP ON THE RISE

The number of students accessing mental health services at the University of Sunderland has increased by 378% in just four years.

In the academic year 2012-13, the data shows 185 students asked the University of Sunderland for support, compared to 884 students in the year 2016-17.

The number of students accessing mental health services at the University of Sunderland has increased by 378% in just four years.

Statistics published today show the massive increase in Wearside students who have sought support for mental health issues.

In the academic year 2012-13, the data shows 185 students asked the University of Sunderland for support, compared to 884 students in the year 2016-17.

The university said the wellbeing of all students is a top priority for them.

The figures, obtained by a BBC study, show that nationally over the same period there has been a 53% increase in the numbers of students seeking help for mental health issues.

The total budget spent on university mental health services across the country has gone up from £25.5million in 2012-13 to £36.6m in 2016/17, which is an increase of 43%.

In Sunderland the university spent £166,657 on these services in 2013-14 and £285,623 in 2016-17.

Oliver Pritchard, Deputy Director Student Journey at University of Sunderland, said the university is proud of the support it gives to students.

He said: “Students here access our Wellbeing team for a wide range of reasons, from day-to-day guidance to longer-term support. We consider the wellbeing of all our students as a priority.

“Our Wellbeing team works as part of our wider Student Support Service and with specialist NHS partners.”

“We consider the wellbeing of all our students a priority” OLIVER PRITCHARD