University staff and student health and wellbeing boost on Blue Monday

STAFF and students across all University of Cumbria campuses are being encouraged to indulge in small, random acts of kindness today (MON).

On what is dubbed ‘Blue Monday’, leaders of the university and University of Cumbria Students’ Union are inviting those on its sites in Carlisle, Ambleside, Lancaster and London to put a focus on their own welfare and wellbeing.

Encouraging them to indulge in simple acts, a list of planned activities and ideas has been drawn up in the hope measures will help combat the January blues and spread joy on campus.

Suggestions include complimenting a stranger, volunteering or supporting a good cause, calling colleagues and friends rather than emailing or texting, going out for a ‘walk and talk’, taking or making someone a drink, or even taking their plant to work.

Relaxing colouring sessions will be available in communal campus areas for staff and students to gather and take part in, whilst ‘Team Treats’ of cakes and biscuits are also encouraged.

A university spokeswoman said: “We are passionate about staff and student welfare and as part of our ongoing commitment to health and wellbeing, working with the Students’ Union we have developed a few ideas to combat the January blues, brighten up the day and inject a bit of fun into all campuses.

“So to counter the supposed effects of Blue Monday, we are inviting all staff and students to indulge in small acts of kindness by participating in one or more of the planned activities.  These are typically small scale and personal.

“We want staff and students to take part and tell us what they do so we can help turn Blue Monday into a Happy Monday.”

The initiative, which coincides with the #BrighterCumbria campaign, is also helping the university to reaffirm its focus on welfare and wellbeing among its teams and students across campuses in Brampton Road and Fusehill Street, Carlisle; Ambleside, Lancaster and London, and round-the-clock support available to those who need it.

Support available to University of Cumbria students include mental health and wellbeing teams, counselling, information and guidance on how to access NHS and other services, and sports and recreation activities and facilities.

PICTURES

Learning Gateway, Fusehill Street, Carlisle - a communal area on the campus

Blue Monday - image for social media