University of the West of England

Healthwatch Bristol spoke with students at the University of the West of England as part of a wider project exploring emotional health and wellbeing. The engagement focused on understanding the pressures students faced, the support they used and what improvements could be made. Feedback highlighted that stress related to coursework, assignments and exams was common, and that peer support was one of the most important sources of help for students.

Most participants said that talking to friends and fellow students helped them manage stress and anxiety. Other sources of support included tutors, sports activities, faith groups and part-time work, which students felt provided social connections and a positive distraction from academic pressures.

Students who had used health services generally reported positive experiences. Many sought support from their GP for stress, anxiety or depression, receiving advice, referrals for counselling or adjustments to their studies. However, some participants felt there should be a wider range of treatment options for depression beyond medication, alongside better continuity within counselling services so students could see the same counsellor consistently. 

Overall, Healthwatch found strong evidence that peer support plays a vital role in student wellbeing. Recommendations included increasing awareness of support services on campus, encouraging peer-support networks, expanding wellbeing activities for students and ensuring GPs consider a wider range of support options, including social prescribing and non-medication approaches for mental health difficulties.