9 December 2020
Fife College is ensuring health and wellbeing is front of mind for students and staff during the festive period with a ‘Get Ready for Christmas’ event this week.
The event, taking place online on the College’s social media channels and student portal, is sharing advice and resources to help students and staff stay safe, happy and healthy over the Christmas period.
The College’s social media pages and student portal are featuring videos – from organisations and support services such as NHS Fife, Fife Voluntary Action, Citizen’s Advice Bureau Fife and Fife Young Carers, which highlight different ways to protect and improve health and wellbeing during the winter months.
The event coincides with research published by the National Union of Students (NUS) this week which highlighted how Covid-19 has negatively affected students’ mental health. Their survey found that over 50% of students felt their mental health had declined since the start of the pandemic.
John Blakey, Fife College’s Health and Wellbeing Advisor, said:
“Supporting the health and wellbeing of students and staff is at the heart of what we do at Fife College, so we are delighted we have been able to move our annual ‘Get Ready for Christmas’ event online this year.
“This has been a hugely challenging year for everyone, so we knew it was more important than ever to come together, albeit virtually, to share information and advice about how we can all look after each other during what will be a very different Christmas period.
“Thanks to all our partners, from charities to support services, for getting involved in the event. As ever, if any student or member of staff feels they need support or advice, or someone to reach out to at any time then please don’t hesitate to get in touch.”
The College’s commitment to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of students and staff has also recently led to a collaboration with the Scottish psychological counselling service, Breathing Space.
The link up with Breathing Space will see a number of special benches placed in the grounds of the College in the New Year to promote kindness and everyday positive relationships.
The benches will be placed in quiet and strategic spots in order to allow a quiet space for everyone to find time for their health and wellbeing.
For more information about the College’s work to promote positive mental health and wellbeing, visit our guidance pages.
