Wellbeing
Wellbeing support is one of the many benefits at University College that sets us apart from other providers. We have a team of 24/7 staff, enabling our residents to access support at any time of day. We also prioritise events and programming targeted at empowering, educating, and connecting our students.
Dean of Students
The Dean of Students has overall responsibility for the wellbeing and experience of our students, in addition to community engagement and management. The Dean of Students is available to meet directly with residents during business hours to address any concerns or support needs.
Student Wellbeing Coordinator
Our Student Wellbeing Coordinator is a clinical social worker who is on site during business hours. Students can book short term or single session counselling to explore issues related to mental health, relationships, transition to college life, exam stress, and other general life stressors. We can also help residents access community resources and external support. Monthly newsletters and regular posting across social media are used to provide students with relevant and timely information related to their wellbeing and mental health.
Resident Tutors and Youth Workers
Our Resident Tutors and Youth Workers are available seven days a week to respond to community needs and issues that arise after hours. Resident Tutors have a duty shift from 6-10pm on weekdays, as well as providing coverage over the weekend. Youth Workers are scheduled 10pm-6am every day. All Resident Tutors and Youth Workers are trained in physical and mental health first aid, and Resident Tutors additionally act as fire wardens in case of fire evacuation/emergency.
Youth Workers support student wellbeing by responding to community issues such as lockouts, noise, and wellbeing issues. They also assist with emergency situations and performing security checks around campus during the overnight hours. We have a team of approximately eight Youth Workers each year who come from backgrounds such as teaching or outdoor education, making them familiar with supporting young adults. They are always up for a late-night chat or cuppa.
Dean of Students
Wellbeing Committee
The Student Wellbeing Committee is made up of students who have expressed an interest in mental health and wellbeing. They work alongside staff to identify community needs and promote various initiatives throughout the year. This often includes running events to facilitate making new connections such as baking nights, trivia, PFAs, afternoon teas, or movie nights; promoting initiatives such as RUOK?Day and Movember; and hosting Wellbeing Week and UC Spirit Week which aim to foster connection and promote wellbeing through student-led events.
Training
All students (and in particular our student leaders) receive extensive training around consent, drugs and alcohol, bystander intervention and more. We hope that such training will provide students with the tools they need to be their best selves and be respectful, courageous, and kind within their communal environment. These trainings also aim to empower students to address issues as they arise and to know where and how to seek support if needed.
Facilities
Our outdoor spaces and access to gym facilities are also designed to complement these other services, ensuring there is plenty of opportunity for you to get outside and keep physically and mentally healthy. Additionally, all University College residents receive access to the gym and recreation facilities at University of Melbourne Sport (irrespective of which university they attend).