Universities told to safeguard mental health of students

VICE-CHANCELLORS have been told they must “prioritise” the mental health and wellbeing of new students, as the universities minister says that this requires “leadership from the top”.

In a letter sent to all vicechancellors in the country ahead of students’ return to university this week for the start of a new term, Sam Gyimah warned that there is “no negotiation” when it comes to mental health.

“Collectively, we must prioritise the wellbeing and mental health of our students – there is no negotiation on this. To make this happen, leadership from the top is essential,” he said.

Mr Gyimah has previously called for a greater focus on mental health issues, saying that universities’ main purpose is no longer learning.

He has said that only “traditional” vice-chancellors see “the prime purpose of their university as training of the mind”, adding: “This is no longer the case.”

This week, around 400,000 students are due to start university.

Last year, a vice-chancellor warned that universities are turning a blind eye to freshers’ week “excesses”, and urged institutions to end their “permissive” culture.

And in a new report, Sir Anthony Seldon, vice-chancellor of Buckingham University, said freshers should be offered alternatives to parties and social events where heavy drinking and drug-taking are prevalent.

Sir Anthony’s report, published by the Higher Education Policy Institute, outlines how to create “positive universities” and suggests first-year students take courses that teach them about the importance of wellbeing and good mental health.