As we continue to recognise Mental Health Awareness Week, it’s an important opportunity to take a closer look at the vital role further education colleges across Wales play in supporting the wellbeing of learners and staff every single day.
Colleges are far more than places of learning. For many people, they are safe spaces where individuals can access trusted support, build confidence, and feel connected during some of the most difficult periods of their lives. The growing demand for mental health and wellbeing services across FE also highlights the importance of sustained investment and long-term support to ensure this essential work can continue.
The following case study from Coleg Cambria demonstrates the difference compassionate, timely wellbeing support can make.
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When a learner at Coleg Cambria was referred for Mental Health and Wellbeing Coaching, they were experiencing low mood, isolation and suicidal thoughts linked to difficult family circumstances. Feeling misunderstood at home, the learner had withdrawn from friends and social activities, spending most of their time alone outside of attending college. Working closely with the college Safeguarding team, Mental Health and Wellbeing Coach Megan Lewis first focused on helping the learner stay safe and manage suicidal thoughts. Together, they explored practical coping strategies, identified trusted support networks, and created a safe, non-judgemental space where the learner felt able to speak openly about their experiences. As trust developed, sessions began to focus on improving communication within the family and reducing feelings of isolation. Through small but meaningful steps, the learner explored ways to connect with others, build confidence and develop healthier coping strategies. Over time, they became more open to new experiences and increasingly able to communicate their needs more effectively. Reflecting on the experience, Megan highlighted the importance of addressing immediate safety while also supporting learners to make gradual, sustainable changes that improve wellbeing and connection over time. |
This case study is a powerful reminder of the impact college wellbeing teams have across Wales - and why continued support and investment in these services remains so important.
The ColegauCymru Manifesto for the new Welsh Government, Growth Opportunity and Fairness, calls for a commitment to sustainable mental health and wellbeing funding provision in colleges.
As highlighted in the ColegauCymru Manifesto, colleges across Wales are seeing increasing numbers of mental health, wellbeing and safeguarding referrals year on year. We are calling on the next Welsh Government to commit to sustained, long-term funding for mental health and wellbeing support so colleges can continue providing the safe, trusted and transformative support that learners and staff rely on.
