University Mental Health Day is always an important moment in our year, but this time the theme - Human Connection - feels especially meaningful.
Across Bath, and beyond, thousands of students are studying, socialising, and building their futures side by side. Yet we know that many experience loneliness at some point during their university journey. In last year’s Be Well Survey most students reported feeling lonely at least occasionally (76.2%), with a significant minority experiencing loneliness frequently (11.5%), and only a very small group reporting never feeling lonely (3%). Feeling lonely doesn’t mean you’ve failed - it means you’re human. All of us need to feel seen, valued, and connected.
Through our work at Bath - including our whole‑university Be Well at Bath approach - we’ve learnt how deeply wellbeing is shaped by the people around us and the everyday culture we build together. Past reflections have shown that support doesn’t only come from formal services; it is often found in the small, compassionate moments that make up daily life at our University.
This year’s theme is a powerful reminder of how much these everyday connections matter.
Human connection matters - and it takes many forms
Connection doesn’t need to be grand or carefully planned. Sometimes it’s a conversation after a lecture, a hello in the corridor, a check‑in from a colleague, or a chat before a sports session. These moments help us feel part of something.
But connection can also feel hard. Technology, pressure, and the fast pace of university life sometimes make it easier to withdraw than to reach out. Today is about creating space where connection feels a little easier, whether you’re new to Bath or have been part of this community for years.
Activities to bring us together - for students and staff
Across campus today, you’ll find all sorts of opportunities to connect, meet new people, or simply spend time among others. These activities are open to everyone, run throughout the year and you’re warmly encouraged to join in.
Community and belonging for students
If you’re looking to meet new people or explore something new, the Students’ Union, ResLife, and STV offer many ways to connect:
- Student groups and communities across shared interests and experiences
- ResLife, with events and activities if you live in University accommodation (on and off-campus)
- Arts activities, including performance, creative workshops and more
- Societies covering cultural, academic, social and hobby interests
- Volunteering, offering meaningful ways to make a difference alongside others
- Be Well Week 2026, starts on Monday 16 March and includes lots of free activities for students to try and opportunities to meet new people
We recognise that some students might need extra support to build or find their community. Our Social Networking Group, Autism social group, Bereavement social group, LGBTQ+ Connect, and Black Students' Network are all here to help.
Community and connection for staff
Connection is just as important for staff, and there are many ways colleagues can get involved:
- Staff networks and groups, offering support, conversation and shared community
- Staff Wellbeing Champions, helping foster a healthy culture within departments
- Staff wellbeing events, offering opportunities to move, reflect, and connect with colleagues
- Be Well Week 2026 also includes a whole host of wellbeing activities for staff to get involved in
The role of sport and activity
Sport and movement remain some of the most powerful ways to build connection. Whether you’re trying a fitness class, joining a Just Play session, or taking a walk with a colleague, shared movement can create moments of joy, friendship, and support that last well beyond the activity itself.
As PVC for Student Experience and Sport, I see every day how physical activity brings people together - no matter their background, confidence, or ability.
Last week, I met a group of students who are taking the idea of movement for mental health to the next level. The Bath Challenge team, made up of more than 20 students, is preparing to climb the High Atlas Mountains in Morocco in support of the UK’s leading student mental health charity, Student Minds. If you would like to support their challenge, you can donate via their JustGiving page, or visit the Bath Challenge website if you would like to get involved in future challenges.
Be Well at Bath - our principles in action
This year, we are also highlighting our new video series, Be Well at Bath: Our Principles in Action, which showcases colleagues and students across the University who are putting wellbeing at the heart of what they do.
These stories show that wellbeing is not the responsibility of one team or one day - it’s something we shape collectively through our teaching, our support, our sport, our research, and our everyday interactions.
You can watch the first video in the series on our website, and keep an eye out for the next instalment coming soon.
You’re not alone
If things feel difficult right now - whether you’re a student or a member of staff - please remember that support is always available. Reaching out is a sign of strength, and no one here ever has to navigate challenges alone.
Today, I encourage you to take one small step toward connection: message a friend, join an activity, say hello to someone you don’t usually speak to, or simply offer a moment of kindness.
Thank you for everything you do to help make Bath a community where everyone can feel they belong.
Contact me directly at pro-vc-se@bath.ac.uk if you have a question or would like to suggest future topics for my blog.
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