Ahead of World Mental Health Day on 10 October, the University of Sussex, in collaboration with Health Innovation Kent Surrey Sussex, Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, the University of Surrey and the Charlie Waller Foundation, is calling on school and college governors across the UK to help shape a new national Governors Toolkit designed to strengthen whole-school and college approaches to mental health and wellbeing. 

The Toolkit will translate evidence from the Whole School and College Approach (WSCA) research programme into practical, accessible resources that governors can use to embed evidence-informed strategies in their schools and colleges, and to evaluate their impact.

Governors play a key role in driving a whole-school and college approach by setting strategic direction, ensuring accountability, and fostering a culture where every learner thrives through cohesive leadership and shared vision. Gathering governors' views and experiences is essential for uncovering hidden challenges, aligning priorities, and empowering them to lead a more informed and effective approach to mental health and wellbeing.

How you can help:

You can share your perspective in a short survey which closes on Friday 17 October. The survey takes just 5–10 minutes to complete and will directly inform the Toolkit’s design.

• If you are a governor: please complete this survey. 
• If you work in education or related sectors: please share the survey opportunity with your networks.

Your support ahead of World Mental Health Day will make a real difference to the success of this initiative and, ultimately, to the wellbeing of pupils and students nationwide.

Professor Robin Banerjee, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Global and Civic Engagement), at the University of Sussex, said: 

“Governors play a vital role in shaping the culture and priorities of schools and colleges. Their leadership is essential to creating environments where every pupil and student can thrive. By helping us co-design this Toolkit, governors will ensure it is grounded in real-world experience and delivers meaningful support for improving mental health and wellbeing across education settings.”

Becca Randell, Mental Health Innovation Lead at Health Innovation Kent Surrey Sussex said: 

"Governors play a key role in driving a whole school and college approach by setting strategic direction, ensuring accountability, and fostering a culture where every learner thrives through cohesive leadership and shared vision.  Gathering governors' views and barriers is essential for uncovering hidden challenges, aligning strategic priorities, and empowering them to lead a more informed and effective whole school and college approach"

Jules Gillard, Postgraduate Researcher in the School of Psychology, added:

“As we approach World Mental Health Day, we are asking governors to share their perspectives so we can ensure the Toolkit truly meets their needs. Their input will directly inform the development of resources that can make a real difference to students, teachers and whole-school communities.”