Supporting Student Mental Health: The Open University & AWARE NI Partnership

Your Mental Health Matters

The Open University in Northern Ireland is proud to partner with AWARE NI to support the mental health and wellbeing of students, staff and communities across Northern Ireland.

Together, we are working to ensure learners have access to trusted support, mental health resources and opportunities to connect with others while balancing study, work and personal commitments.

At The Open University, we understand that mental wellbeing plays an important role in student success. Through this partnership, we aim to help students feel supported, connected and empowered throughout their learning journey.

Access Mental Health Support

Visit AWARE NI

Supporting Student Wellbeing Across Northern Ireland

Flexible learning creates opportunities for people from all backgrounds to access education. However, balancing study alongside work, caring responsibilities and everyday life can sometimes feel overwhelming.

That is why student mental health and wellbeing remain a key priority for The Open University in Northern Ireland.

Through our partnership with AWARE NI, students can access additional support, guidance and resources to help maintain positive mental wellbeing while studying.

a pair of hands resting on a metal fence looking out into nature

Together, we are helping to:

  • raise awareness of mental health and wellbeing  
  • reduce stigma around seeking support  
  • connect students with trusted services  
  • promote resilience and self-care  
  • encourage supportive learning communities  
  • widen access to wellbeing resources across Northern Ireland  

A Shared Commitment to Student Support

Student mental health is a top priority for us. By partnering with AWARE NI, we are strengthening our commitment to supporting our learners across Northern Ireland.

This partnership reflects a shared commitment to creating accessible, supportive and inclusive learning environments where students can thrive both academically and personally. 

Maggie Bates, Senior Manager for Widening Access at The Open University in Ireland

What Support is Available?

Students can access a range of mental health and wellbeing support through The Open University and AWARE NI.

Student Support and Signposting

Our dedicated Student Support Team in Northern Ireland can help connect students to appropriate wellbeing services and support options, including:

  • information and guidance  
  • wellbeing resources  
  • mental health signposting  
  • local support services  
  • referral to AWARE NI programmes and support groups  

AWARE NI Services

a person walking on a sunny woodland trail

AWARE NI provides a range of services designed to support positive mental health and emotional wellbeing, including:

  • support groups across Northern Ireland  
  • wellbeing programmes  
  • mental health information and resources  
  • community support initiatives  
  • online wellbeing support  

Student Stories and Shared Experiences

Hearing from other students can help reduce feelings of isolation and encourage open conversations around mental health.

Read stories from Open University students who have balanced study alongside mental health challenges and accessed support throughout their learning journey.

Explore our student stories

Learning and Wellbeing

Learning can play an important role in building confidence, resilience and personal wellbeing.

The Open University’s flexible learning model allows students to study around work, family and life commitments while developing new skills and opportunities for the future. 

two people sitting by a sunny window, talking across a table

Explore: 

  • free OpenLearn courses on mental health and wellbeing  
  • mindfulness and resilience resources  
  • personal development and confidence-building content  
  • career development and upskilling opportunities  
  • learning designed to fit around your life  

Flexible learning can help learners:

  • build confidence  
  • create routine and structure  
  • develop future career opportunities  
  • connect with new communities  
  • improve wellbeing through personal growth  

Browse wellbeing resources

Events, Webinars and Community Conversations 

The Open University and AWARE NI work together to promote conversations around mental health, wellbeing and student support through a range of events and engagement activities.

These may include:

  • webinars and online talks  
  • wellbeing workshops  
  • awareness campaigns  
  • student-focused discussions  
  • community learning initiatives  

Our aim is to help create safe, supportive spaces where mental health can be discussed openly and positively.

View upcoming events

Supporting Inclusive and Accessible Education

The partnership between The Open University and AWARE NI reflects a wider commitment to: 

  • widening participation in education  
  • supporting student wellbeing  
  • reducing barriers to learning  
  • promoting inclusion and accessibility  
  • strengthening community support networks  
  • encouraging lifelong learning  

By connecting flexible education with trusted wellbeing support, we are helping students across Northern Ireland access the support they need to succeed.

Need Support? Reach Out Today

If you are struggling with your mental health, remember — you are not alone. Support is available. 

Contact and Support  

Contact The Open University

Contact Aware NI

Useful Links and Resources

Your Wellbeing Matters

At The Open University in Northern Ireland, we are committed to helping students feel supported throughout their learning journey.

Together with AWARE NI, we are working to build a more supportive, connected and compassionate learning community across Northern Ireland.