A University of Sussex doctoral researcher has co-authored a new report from Student Minds exploring the relationship between university environments and the health and wellbeing of staff and students.
Wellbeing and the physical environment of universities, published in September, explores how the built and natural environments of university campuses can affect wellbeing through factors including environmental comfort, opportunities for social connection and access to restorative spaces.
The report brings together findings across seven interconnected themes. These include how university environments can communicate belonging and value, shape relationships and learning, support opportunities for restoration and social connection, and affect concentration and comfort through their sensory qualities. It also highlights the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in meeting the diverse needs of university communities.
Amy Knight, a Doctoral Researcher in Childhood and Youth at Sussex, is one of the authors of the report.
The publication is particularly relevant to ongoing work around the University Mental Health Charter, which identifies the physical environment as an important part of a whole-university approach to mental health and wellbeing. Sussex is currently working towards the University Mental Health Charter Award.
Read the full Wellbeing and the physical environment of universities report on the Student Minds website.