Big White Wall provides support for students and staff at University of Cumbria

From today (27 Jan) students at the University of Cumbria have access to an online community to support their mental wellbeing whilst they are studying.

The university is also offering the free online support package from multi-award winning digital mental health and wellbeing service Big White Wall to its 1,000-strong workforce across Cumbria, England’s North West and in London.

All university staff and students will be able to register free of charge to the completely confidential service which will allow them to access a library of self-care resources, tips and guided group courses with topics ranging from managing stress and anxiety to quitting smoking and weight management.

Trained professionals will also be available round the clock to keep members safe and supported when they are online.

Registered with the Care Quality Commission, Big White Wall already works with the NHS, local councils, employers and a number of other universities around the country. It also helps Armed Forces serving personnel, veterans and their families through partnerships with the Ministry of Defence, Help for Heroes and other related groups.

Since it was founded in 2007, it has helped to date more than 100,000 people to manage their wellbeing. Many of those who turn to the service are known to do it outside of normal 9am-5pm working hours.

The introduction of Big White Wall to University of Cumbria expands upon the university’s commitment to provide quality support for its staff and students.

Existing support already available to those on campus, such as the ones in Fusehill Street and Brampton Road, Carlisle and in Rydal Road, Ambleside, include in-house health and wellbeing teams, counselling, information and guidance on how to access NHS and other services, and sports and recreation activities and facilities.

University of Cumbria’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Manager David Wilson said: “We’re thrilled to be working with Big White Wall to support our students and staff in this way as we’re passionate about the health and wellbeing of all those who are part of our university community and always seeking new ways to support them.

“Big White Wall’s online services will help people get support, take control and feel better whenever they want to reach out and this can be done anonymously. Whether they may be suffering from stress, are struggling to sleep or simply need someone to talk to, help will be available.”

A week ago staff and students at University of Cumbria were encouraged to indulge in small acts of kindness to combat so called 'Blue Monday'. Many also took advantage of the university’s offer to receive a free hot drink from its catering outlets and take time out to meet and talk with friends and colleagues.

ENDS

Picture 1: Dave Wilson, Mental Health and Wellbeing Manager, University of Cumbria

Picture 2: Big White Wall Poster