SMHA Strategy Spotlight: St Andrews
At Think Positive, we have found that Student Mental Health Agreements (SMHAs) which align with wider strategic goals, have senior level buy in and are well resourced, have a stronger impact on student mental health.
Here, the University of St Andrews share the impact of their campus larder. This is part of their upcoming Student Mental Health Agreement’s proposed themes on cost of living and student diversity.
The Campus Larder, which opened in October 2023, provides essential food, cleaning, and hygiene products to students and staff.
Funding for the Larder is secured by alumni donors via the University’s Development Team, and the Larder is housed and staffed by the Students’ Association.
Any student or member of staff can book a slot online, and does not require any ‘proof of need.’
The Larder is staffed by a paid intern, and a team of dedicated volunteers, who work to ensure that no-one in our community goes hungry in a time where the cost of living remains high.
The Larder supports the University and Students’ Association’s work around cost of living, and the theme in our upcoming SMHA around addressing the cost of living and the diversity of student backgrounds.
Where possible, the Larder stocks foodstuffs which appeal to students with different allergies and dietary requirements, foods from different cultures, and period products, so that everyone feels welcome, which speaks to the ‘Diverse’ pillar in the University Strategy 2022-27.
Think Positive are looking for case studies and examples of Student Mental Health Agreement Work which links in with the wider strategic goals of your college, university or students’ association – contact us to share yours!
