UHI and HISA renew commitment to student wellbeing with Student Mental Health Agreement

The University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) and the Highlands and Islands Students' Association (HISA) are proud to announce the launch of their joint Student Mental Health Agreement (SMHA) for 2024-2026.

This updated agreement reaffirms our collective commitment to improving student mental health and wellbeing by building on previous initiatives, refining existing support services, and introducing new measures informed by student feedback. It outlines key actions to ensure all students feel safe, supported and enabled to achieve success.

UHI and HISA have a strong partnership focused on delivering an outstanding student experience. The SMHA forms a key part of this collaboration and was developed as part of the NUS (National Union of Students) Scotland ‘Think Positive’ initiative. Each year, we continue to build on this plan, co-creating objectives and impact measures with input from UHI students and support from Think Positive.

By evaluating past objectives and implementing targeted actions, the agreement drives ongoing progress with the overarching aim of empowering positive mental health and wellbeing for all students at UHI. This approach aligns our ethos - in which we understand that many aspects of a student's experience interconnect and may impact their health and wellbeing.

In spring 2024, UHI’s Mental Health and Counselling Team and HISA conducted a student survey to identify the areas of mental health and wellbeing that matter most to students. Insights from this survey, along with feedback from other discussions, have directly shaped the priorities of the 2024-2026 SMHA. This student-led approach ensures that the agreement addresses real needs and brings about meaningful change.

Key highlights of the SMHA included enhanced support services, improved mental health awareness, and the cultivation of a positive culture around wellbeing. The agreement focuses on collaboration, accessible resources, training for staff and students, and proactive measures to address challenges.

HISA President, William Campbell, said:

"I am proud of the launch of the 2024-2026 Student Mental Health Agreement, which marks a significant milestone in our shared commitment to the wellbeing of UHI students. At HISA, we recognise that mental health is central to every aspect of student life, and this agreement reflects our determination to ensure every student feels supported, understood, and empowered to thrive.

“Through collaboration and the insights of our students, we’ve shaped an agreement that addresses real needs and drives meaningful change. By building on past successes and introducing new initiatives, we’re fostering a culture that prioritises mental health and ensures no student feels left behind. Together with UHI, we will continue to work tirelessly to deliver a supportive and inclusive environment where students can achieve their full potential."

Allie Scott and Lorna Ferguson from UHI’s Mental Health and Counselling Team, say:

“We are excited to announce the launch of the Student Mental Health Agreement (SMHA) for 2024-26 across the partnership. This initiative highlights the strong collaboration between UHI’s Mental Health and Counselling Team, HISA, and our academic partners, ensuring that student mental health remains a key priority in line with our updated Mental Health Strategy. It encourages open communication about mental health, promotes opportunities for collaboration and awareness, and provides clear pathways to support when needed. The SMHA reinforces our ongoing commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, fostering a sense of belonging and tackling student social isolation. We are dedicated to enhancing student mental health and wellbeing to help ensure successful outcomes for all.”

For more information and to read the full SMHA agreement, visit HISA's webpage.