Glasgow colleges' live mental health sessions in lockdown

Glasgow's three colleges have access to a series of live mental health sessions during lockdown, thanks to a new regional partnership service.

Charlie Waller Memorial Trust is working with Glasgow Colleges' Regional Board, to offer bespoke sessions to Glasgow Kelvin College, City of Glasgow College and Glasgow Clyde College.

The online sessions are hosted by mental health trainers and tailored for staff and students, covering topics including effective home working, motivating students, coping with stress and bereavement.

GCRB Executive Director Martin Boyle said: "Mental health is a priority across Glasgow's college region and, in the current climate, it is even more pertinent that we look after our well-being.

"These professional development sessions cover a range of useful topics and are running regularly to help support staff and students across the region.

"Glasgow colleges now also have access to a 24/7 online service, the Big White Wall, with trained advisors available round the clock to help support members."

The short live sessions have been scheduled around college timetables. Psychotherapist Jane Darougar hosted a training session for Glasgow Kelvin College staff this week (pictured) on managing anxiety and coping strategies.

Jane said: "The sessions are being delivered to help colleges manage the impact of the pandemic crisis, both in supporting students remotely and in planning to the needs that will arise when colleges reopen.

"We have had positive feedback from the participants and have more sessions scheduled in the coming weeks."

Charlie Waller Memorial Trust also has a range of advice, guidance and support available online. Glasgow college staff who would like to participate in a session should contact their college directly.

Students and staff can register for the Big White Wall service using their college email address.