University of Stirling students will now have access to Spectrum Life, which offers a range of 24/7 clinically valid mental health support.
The service features a 24 hour helpline that provides free, confidential help in-the-moment advice, as well as support for mental health, sleep, nutrition and study skills. Students can access Spectrum Life by signing up through the University of Stirling app or website.
The University signed the contract with the Dublin-based organisation during the summer of 2023, following a case made by the Scottish Socialist Youth Stirling (SSYS) and the University’s Student Support Department.
The SSYS has been surveying students as a part of their Get to the Point campaign to improve mental health support and physical accessibility on campus, and received multiple responses supporting 24/7 mental health support.
The SSYS was able to liaise with former VP Communities Jess Reid and the Student Support department heads Katie Perrin and Jacqui Lenaghen and share those results to be used to make the case for 24/7 mental health support. The SSYS plans to continue the campaign into next year.
Katie Perrin, Head of Student Support, Development and Partnership, says: “The University is delighted to launch a new free emotional wellbeing support service to all our students.
“24/7 Student Support, which will sit alongside our existing University mental health, wellbeing and counselling support, will ensure that students can get in the moment support, regardless of whether it is 2pm in the afternoon or 2am in the morning.
“We know that everyone has a different experience when they start university, whether new or returning, and we hope this is especially helpful to those who are feeling overwhelmed, missing home or would just like someone to talk to as they settle into University life.”
To access the helpline, call 0800 031 822 for UK services, or 00353 1 518 0277 for the international line. Arrange a call back via WhatsApp by texting ‘Hi’ to 07418 360 780.
Featured Image Credit: University of Stirling
