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Research and publications

The Student Mental Health Manifesto

 Our vision for a future where every student can thrive

Student mental health is everyone’s business.

Click to download the Student Mental Health Manifesto >> 

Click to download the 2 page summary >>

Find out how you can support the Student Mental Health Manifesto >>

​The Student Mental Health Manifesto lays out our vision for how the next government can improve student mental health. It’s ambitious and evidence-led, covering five main themes:
  • Healthcare - all students need access to quality and timely mental health support.
  • Financial hardship - all students need enough money to support them through their studies.
  • Higher education - our higher education institutions need improved support and investment.
  • Inclusive education and healthcare - all students need access to inclusive education and healthcare without facing barriers.
  • A mentally healthier nation - we must reach a holistic approach to the mental health and wellbeing of the nation, improving support, prevention and equality.
Students speaking with politicians about student mental health
​​Our recommendations include urgent, targeted changes that can provide instant relief for students, and longer-term reforms that will tackle the systems and structures which make students unwell. We want to create a world where students aren’t forgotten by policymakers, where services are properly funded, and where everybody gets the mental health support they deserve.
The Manifesto treats students as citizens, not just learners, which is why we look at every aspect of student life and challenge politicians and policymakers across government to do their part.

​This document is aimed at those with the power - and responsibility - to make a difference, but if you care about student mental health then it’s for you, too.

Support the Manifesto 

The Manifesto is built upon layers of research, ranging from oral evidence sessions, to “online community” exercises. We draw on the testimony of hundreds of students, staff, and allies in the charity sector. 

Our ask, our plea, our challenge to politicians is: are you going to prioritise student mental health?

 
​Are you going to invest in our students and our institutions? Amidst turbulent times domestically and abroad, are you going to paint a picture for the future that's hopeful, ambitious, and exciting?
The Student Mental Health Manifesto is not just a document - it's a call to action. We urge policymakers to prioritise the mental health agenda and implement the changes necessary to create a supportive environment for all students.
It is only together that we can ensure no student is held back by their mental health.
 
Students sat around a table studying

Endorsements

We know that the key to achieving change comes from collaboration. Below are the organisations that share our vision for a future where every student can thrive.

If you would like to add your organisation’s voice to ours, please complete this form and we can include your logo below. 

Join our movement to creating a future where every student can thrive.​
Birkbeck University Students Union logo
UCL Students' Union Logo
Mental health foundation logo
Buzz consulting logo
NPTC Group Student Union logo
Save the student logo
University mental health advisors network
York University students union logo
Blackbullion logo
Children and Young People's Mental Health logo
Buzz consulting logo
The Mix Logo
Mental Health Innovations
Edinburgh University Students' Association Logo
Buzz consulting logo
Charlie Waller logo

What do you think of the Student Mental Health Manifesto? Do you have any questions?

​Contact us: [email protected] >>

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Student Minds is registered with Companies House, 07493445
Student Minds is a Charity registered in England and Wales, 1142783
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  • About
    • What we do >
      • Our strategy
      • Our impact
    • Our team >
      • Trustees
      • Clinical Advisors
      • University Mental Health Charter Assessors
      • Student Advisors
      • Anti-Racism Council
    • Our supporters
  • Find Support
    • Support for me >
      • Support at your university and further
      • University staff-run workshops
      • Student stories
    • Support for a friend >
      • Starting a conversation
      • Looking after yourself
    • Support for parents
    • Cost of living
    • Resources >
      • Men’s Mental Health
      • The Wellbeing Thesis
      • Transitions >
        • Transition into University
        • Know Before You Go
        • Transitions for staff
      • Starting University
      • Exam stress
      • LGBTQ+
      • Looking after your mental wellbeing
      • Year Abroad
      • Student finance
      • Support through a family health crisis
  • Get Involved
    • Student opportunities
    • Staff opportunities
    • General supporter opportunities
  • Training
  • News and Publications
    • Latest news
    • Research and publications >
      • Reports >
        • Student Mental Health Manifesto
        • Climate change and student mental health
        • Part-time, distance learner and commuter students
        • International Students
        • Life in a Pandemic
        • Supporting Students with Eating Disorders
        • The Role of an Academic
        • LGBTQ+ Research​
        • Student Voices
        • Graduate Wellbeing
        • Grand Challenges
        • University Challenge
        • Looking After a Mate
        • Summary of HEFCE’s Report
      • Consultation Responses
      • Insight Briefings >
        • Student Mental Health in a Pandemic >
          • Life in a pandemic: Wave II findings
        • Disabled students and Mental Health
      • Student Advisory Committee Reflections
      • Good practice guides >
        • Student Living
        • Co-producing Mental Health Initiatives With Student Volunteers
        • Podcasting About Mental Health
        • Co-producing mental health strategies with students
        • Supporting Male Student Mental Health
  • Support Us
    • Fundraise >
      • Step into Spring
      • Plan Your Own Event
      • Fundraise at university
      • Fundraise at work
      • Challenge Events
      • Paying in money
      • Fundraising Resources
    • Corporate Partners
  • Donate
    • Online shopping
    • Payroll giving
    • Universities