City College Plymouth has made a commitment to support students and staff with their mental health and wellbeing by signing up to a brand-new charter.
The Mental Health and Wellbeing Charter has been created by the Association of Colleges (AoC) in conjunction with mental health experts and is an 11-point document that sets out how the College will create an environment that is proactive in its support of student and staff mental health.
Every year, one in ten young people experience a mental health problem and one in five young people aged 16-24 experience a common mental illness such as anxiety or depression at any one time. Statistics show that 75% of adults with a diagnosable mental health problem experience their first symptoms before the age of 24, which means City College Plymouth has a vital role to play for its 12,500 students and 650 staff.
Jackie Grubb, Principal and Chief Executive at City College Plymouth, said: “Promoting student and staff wellbeing is at the core of everything we do at City College Plymouth and ensuring they are all healthy and safe is a key part of our new strategic plan.
“By signing this charter, we are promoting a learning environment and organisational culture that impacts positively on the health and wellbeing of our students and staff to ensure they achieve their full potential.”
Bob Hunter, Director of Student Journey, said: “At City College Plymouth, we want our students to know there is support here for them. It never fails to shock me that one in five young people are experiencing a mental health condition.
“If you are struggling, please speak out and get the support necessary. There are people here ready to help.”
To date, 120 colleges have signed up to the AoC Mental Health Charter. Find out more about the charter at www.aoc.co.uk.
