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Student support at Kingston University: from the mental health support team to KU Cares’ 20 years of impact
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- Health and social care
Kingston University is proud of the outstanding support available to their students. With specialised teams for each area of need; covering academic and general life struggles, the University shows how dedicated it is to student wellbeing and development, offering careers advice, disability support, a mental health programme and academic enhancement.
Thinking about all of this had me reflecting on the ways the University shows support to students: usually the first things that come to mind are bursaries, allowances and scholarships. These open doors that students from vulnerable backgrounds may think are inaccessible. Fee waivers and financial aid are a meaningful, life-changing opportunity, but those are just a few of the options available to help students start their education journey. Kingston University takes their support one step further with their offering.
Disability and mental health support on campus
Even though I don't personally use the services offered by the Disability and Mental Health Support team, I was so impressed to see how they make themselves available to students, even before enrolment. The support network for mental health, and any other sort of different needs, goes beyond simply registering and getting help with deadlines and exams; it is a complete system with check-ups, a sensory room, up to six free counselling sessions every academic year, drop-in advice sessions, stress management, financial guidance, GP guidance (there is an NHS GP branch on campus!), and academic staff trained in first aid and mental health first aid.
As someone who has suffered from burnout in the past, I can confidently say that mental health in education is a serious matter and should not be left on the side. It has a huge impact on overall motivation, academic performance and happiness. So, even if you are feeling a little under the weather, suspect an undiagnosed Specific Learning Difference and need a screening or assessment, or are going through an overwhelming situation, rest assured, no struggle is too little, and the team at Kingston University will work to accommodate your needs, support your studies and ensure your overall wellbeing.
Reflecting on all this, it’s a good reminder: if you ever feel like you need a bit of extra support, don't hesitate to reach out. There is a whole team waiting to help, and they are truly there for you.
KU Cares: 20 years of impact and remembering Emily Hughes
I was kindly invited to participate in a KU Cares event earlier this year - they have completed 20 years of inspiring work, impacting the lives of carers, asylum seekers and care leavers; 20 years of changing the world, bit by bit; 20 years of a team that works like a family, creating life-long connections. It is amazing to see something that started out reaching only five students, and today impacts over 100 students each year, thanks to the support of internal and external funds and collaborators.
One of these collaborators was Emily Hughes. Emily believed that support went further than just opening doors; it meant creating connections, so that students from every background could truly succeed in their academic life. For 14 years, Emily supported hundreds of students with her whole heart and soul, until she sadly passed away in 2020. Remembering Emily and celebrating her work was an emotional moment during the event; even those who did not know her understood the powerful and inspirational person that she was. Emily's ideals are still the foundation of KU Cares, the University honoured her with a posthumous Braveheart Award and an Aim Highers Outstanding Contribution Award for her actions in ensuring a successful academic life for the students with the most challenging backgrounds.
Discover more about the support and services offered through KU Cares
