Integrating mental health and wellbeing into the university experience

Professor Bridgette Bewick (University of Leeds) will talk about the idea of a compassionate campus and curriculum alongside some considerations around how we measure ‘mental health and wellbeing’ and how to facilitate a data informed approach. The talk will cover the basics of these concepts for those interested in integrating compassion and mental health considerations into their own practice, as well as some newer ideas.

About our speaker

Bridgette is a University of Leeds Professor who has advanced our understanding of how to integrate sense of belonging and wellbeing into university curricula and culture. As the founder of ‘Compassionate Curriculum Conversations’ she’s facilitated a safe space for staff and students to come together and engage in honest and authentic discussion around creating a compassionate and inclusive university experience. Her international career has focussed on placing mental health and wellbeing at the heart of the university experience.

From Aotearoa New Zealand, she is now both a British and New Zealand citizen. From a working-class background, she was the first in her family to achieve the New Zealand equivalent of GCSE and study at university. She’s an LGBT+ role model at the University of Leeds and is passionate about increasing bivisibility in higher education. Outside of work she’s an active member of Queer Saltaire, a voluntary led local community for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies. Her Yogic Practice and lots of walking by water keeps her grounded and present.