Bournemouth University

Bournemouth University’s vision is to be recognised worldwide as a leading university for inspiring learning, advancing knowledge and enriching society through the fusion of education, research and practice. We have more than 19,000 students and are ranked as one of the top 200 young universities in the world. We achieved a silver award in the Teaching Excellence Framework and the 2014 Research Excellence Framework defined 96% of our research as internationally recognised or higher, with 72% deemed to have an outstanding or very considerable impact on society. Bournemouth University plays its part in this local economy, contributing over £1 million per day to the South West region. We employ around 1,800 staff and we are investing £250 million in our buildings, IT and facilities between 2012 and 2020. Our strategic plan, BU2025, sets out our vision, values and outcomes, with the fusion of education, research and practice at its heart.

How does your organisation contribute to preventing suicide and supporting those affected by it?

Working in the areas of health research we are interested in public health generally. Specifically we are committed to ensuring the ongoing well-being of our staff and students and particularly in ensuring that our student community are supported to access support appropriate to their needs whether that is provided in house or by our external partners.

The university is working with the Dorset Clinical Commissioning Group on the update of the Dorset Suicide Prevention Plan.

What are your current priorities?

To promote good student and staff mental health. To ensure that those who need specialist support are able to access this when they need it. To continue to develop our relationships with the NHS, charities and other local partners in support of these aims.

What challenges are you currently facing?

Encouraging early disclosure, information sharing, developing seamless support pathways