SETU has introduced the Healthy Campus Charter, an initiative designed to promote a holistic approach to the health and wellbeing of students and staff.
The charter aims to create a supportive environment that prioritises mental, physical, and social health, embedding wellness in every aspect of campus life.
Supporting physical and mental well-being
Professor Veronica Campbell, President of SETU, commented, “At SETU, we are dedicated to fostering a supportive environment that promotes physical and mental well-being for the entire SETU community, which is at the heart of our strategic goals. By signing the Healthy Campus Charter, SETU is reaffirming this commitment in line with the Healthy Campus Framework, as set out by the Higher Education Authority (HEA), ensuring well-being is central to our operations as an institution.”
Embedding health and well-being into campus life
David Denieffe, Vice President for Student Experience at SETU, signed the Charter in commitment to enhancing wellbeing initiatives at the University. He said, “The Healthy Campus Charter represents our commitment to creating a supportive, inclusive, and healthy environment for all who study, work, and live on our campuses. By signing this charter, we are setting a clear standard for health and wellbeing across the university, with the aim of embedding wellness in all aspects of campus life.”
Inspired by global health initiatives
Inspired by global health initiatives and tailored to the specific needs of the SETU community, the Charter promotes a culture of health across the University. It highlights the collective responsibility of staff, students, and external partners to foster an inclusive, healthy campus. Programmes focused on wellbeing, sustainable practices, and accessible support services will play a key role in ensuring that health is a part of everyday life at SETU.
A collaborative effort
The development of the Healthy Campus Charter involved extensive consultation with key stakeholders, including health professionals, university leadership, student representatives, and external partners from the health sector.
Several key figures were involved in the creation of the Charter, including: Prof. Veronica Campbell, President of SETU; David Denieffe, Vice President for Student Experience; Ross Woods, Senior Manager of Teaching and Learning (HEA); Caroline Mahon, National Healthy Campus Coordinator; Mark Dunne, President of the Students’ Union; Kristen Venianakis, Executive Officer of the Higher Education Authority (HEA); and Ellen Stack, Healthy Campus Coordinator.
The Charter will be featured on the SETU website and will serve as a cornerstone of ongoing efforts to promote health and wellbeing throughout the University.