LiverpoolSU leads the way in ending the stigma towards mental health

As part of our pledge to end the stigma​ around mental health. LiverpoolSU, along with partner stakeholder organisations aim to build on our work already undertaken to support Student Staff and our full-time in recognising the signs and symptoms of mental health problems and enabling them to feel more confident in dealing with them appropriately.

To promote Mental Health awareness week, LiverpoolSU (in conjunction with Student Advice and Wellbeing at LJMU) held a ‘Mental Health and Wellbeing Fair’ at the James Parsons Building in February 2014. At this event, the Time to Change pledge was signed by Dan Cole (VP Community Engagement 13-15) and Professor Nigel Weatherill (Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Liverpool John Moores University), joining 50,000 other organisations who have already signed the pledge.

Above (in no particular order): LiverpoolSU Sabbatical Officer team 2013-2014, Nigel Weatherill (LJMU Vice-Chancellor), Gary Millar (Lord Mayor of Liverpool 2013-2014), Jake James (Young Lord Mayor of Liverpool 2014).

Dan Cole (Vice President Community Engagement 13-15) said, "Mental health is a big issue for students and young people. Our research shows that a significant minority of the students we represent have experienced mental health problems, and over 1 in 3 of those have experienced stigma, prejudice or ridicule because of it. At Liverpool Students’ Union we are committed to ensuring that every student at LJMU has the best university experience, free from stigma. We are delighted to be able to sign the Time to Change pledge that commits us to helping to banish stigma once and for all."

Former Lord Mayor of Liverpool Gary Millar said, "It’s great to be here with LJMU and Liverpool Students’ Union as they sign the ‘Time to Change’ pledge to end mental health stigma. Liverpool is a diverse city, with a large student population and I’m delighted to see people working to make sure that everyone who lives, works and studies in Liverpool does so free from any sort of prejudice."

Click here to view the news report from Bay TV, showcasing our event and speaking with several people in attendance at the event.

As a result of the Union signing the pledge there are now plans in place to further our work in reducing the stigma associated with mental health.

If you would like to sign the Time to Change pledge, you can by clicking here.

If you are experiencing emotional or psychological difficulties and feel you would benefit from talking to someone, the Student Advice and Wellbeing team within LJMU offer a free, confidential, one-to-one service. Click here for more information.

If you are need help with academic advice, LiverpoolSU has a dedicated Advice Centre that provides free and impartial advice. Click here for more information.