The University of Western Australia has achieved professional accreditation for its unique approach to mental health and wellbeing services, making it one of the first programs of its kind to be endorsed in Australia.

Assessors from Quality Innovation Performance (QIP) against the National Standards for Mental Health Services praised UWA for its clear commitment to supporting mental health and wellbeing. 

Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Education) Professor David Sadler commended the Student Life team, saying this was an outstanding endorsement of the University’s commitment to mental health and wellbeing through a continuum of care.

“UWAs provision of mental health and wellbeing services to students and staff from mental health promotion right through to clinical interventions and engagement with acute service providers is unique,” Professor Sadler said.

“These services aim to provide impactful engagement for students in safe supportive spaces like The Living Room based in Shenton House, as well as supporting students through our Counselling and Psychological Services.”

The QIP review team praised the innovative and evidence-informed approaches to supporting people in distress or experiencing mental health challenges. 

The assessors also highlighted the recently developed UWA Mental Health and Wellbeing Framework and how it is being used at UWA to drive change and innovation, to improve the supports available to vulnerable young people.

The services have been co-designed with the UWA student community, using extensive peer consultation to develop appropriate facilities and programs. This includes the Peer Support model and appointment-free nature of the Living Room and the responsiveness nature of the Mental Health services, with students able to drop in or self-refer.

“The involvement of staff, students, researchers, subject matter experts, and external sources have helped develop an environment that complements and supports standard mental health services,” Professor Sadler said.

“I would like to recognise the dedication and passion demonstrated by staff and peer supporters in our Mental Health and Wellbeing Services and encourage students to continue to reach out if they need support.

“This is a very positive step towards supporting student mental health and wellbeing at UWA and this accreditation gives us direction for future expansion of our services.”

The Living Room Pop-up:
Thursday 8 and Friday 9 September, 5-7pm at Ground Floor of Reid Library 

If you would like to learn more visit the Living Room Pop-up at the Reid Library. You'll meet one of our friendly Peer Supporters and our support dogs Bill and Leo. 

More information is available on the UWA support services website.