The Open University in Northern Ireland is proud to announce a new partnership with AWARE NI, the depression charity working for better mental health across Northern Ireland. Timed to coincide with University Mental Health Day on 13th March, this collaboration aims to enhance mental health awareness and support for students, staff, and wider communities in Northern Ireland through learning and education.
With 4,700 students currently studying with The Open University across Northern Ireland, many of whom juggle work, caring responsibilities, and financial pressures, mental health support is more important than ever. The pressures of modern life, combined with the unique challenges of distance learning, mean that many students require tailored mental health and well-being resources. Recognising this, the partnership with AWARE NI will provide direct, practical support tailored to Northern Ireland’s student community.
Related: First Cisco Academy Support Centre launches in Northern Ireland with support of The Open University
Reece McKeown, Open University Student Association Representative in Ireland commented on this work saying;
"Mental health is a crucial issue for students, particularly for those studying remotely or balancing multiple responsibilities. This partnership between The Open University and AWARE NI is a fantastic step in ensuring that students not only have access to quality education but also the mental health support they need to thrive. It demonstrates a real commitment to student well-being, and I encourage all students to take advantage of the resources available."
As part of the initiative, The Open University and AWARE NI will work together to:
· Provide information and resources on mental health and well-being.
· Signpost students to support services.
· Develop educational content to raise awareness.
· Collaborate on events and activities to promote well-being.
· Engage with students and the wider community to foster a supportive environment.
Additionally, The Open University will provide AWARE NI with information on learning pathways available through its range of accessible, online courses and materials, reinforcing the Public Health Agency’s 'Five Ways to Wellbeing' framework. Lifelong learning plays a vital role in mental health by fostering personal growth, building confidence, and providing individuals with a sense of purpose and achievement. Engaging in education can help reduce stress, improve cognitive function, and create opportunities for social connection, all of which contribute to overall well-being. By encouraging continuous learning, this partnership highlights how education can be a powerful tool in promoting resilience and mental wellness across all stages of life.
Maggie Bates, Senior Manager of Widening Access at The Open University in Ireland, said:
"Student mental health is a top priority for us, and we understand the importance of providing the right support to ensure our learners can thrive. By partnering with AWARE NI, we are strengthening our commitment to student well-being and equipping them with the tools to manage their mental health while they study."
Karen Collins, Chief Executive of AWARE NI, said:
"We are delighted to partner with The Open University in Northern Ireland to support students who may be struggling with mental ill-health. Studying can be a rewarding yet challenging experience, and we want to ensure that students know they are not alone, and that help is available. With mental-ill health particularly prevalent across Northern Ireland, this partnership will provide essential local support."
This partnership reinforces The Open University’s commitment to student wellbeing, ensuring that learners, staff, and their wider communities across Northern Ireland have access to vital mental health resources throughout their studies and beyond
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