Sector leaders gathered today (Friday 4th February) at the University of Westminster to mark the publication of a new book, ‘Preventing and Responding to Student Suicide: a practical guide for FE & HE settings’, edited by Sharon Mallon and Jo Smith.
The book gives timely and practical guidance to universities and further and higher education colleges on the development of evidence-based response plans, informed by experts from across the wide range of fields that are pertinent to the complex and challenging issue of student suicide.
The event, chaired by Dr Diana Beech, CEO of London Higher and also a chapter author, included a panel of experts featuring Dr Peter Bonfield OBE, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Westminster, Rosie Tressler OBE, CEO of Student Minds and Professor David Mosse of SOAS University of London.
Discussion focused on how universities can use the insights contained in the book to attend to the various strands of a comprehensive suicide safer policy.
Speaking about the event, Dr Diana Beech, CEO of London Higher said;
“Government policy is increasingly placing the mental health and wellbeing of students at the top of the higher education agenda. As I explain in my own chapter, over recent years, particular strategic emphasis has been placed on suicide prevention and response.
At London Higher, our Mental Health and Wellbeing network meet regularly to discuss this important issue, and participating members utilise our Wellbeing Connect tool, which links students to mental health services wherever they live.
I hope that today’s event has contributed to the development of best practice in this important area.”
Dr Peter Bonfield OBE, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Westminster and Vice-Chair of London Higher and Executive Chair of the London Higher Mental Health and Wellbeing network said;
“The health and wellbeing of our University of Westminster community is our priority, which is why we are very proud host this event today. I hope that the perspectives shared today will support all those who work and study in our own and other universities.”
