Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board and University of South Wales Launch new Mental Health Pathway

^{Primary Mental Health Practitioners Left to Right - Neil Evans, Conal Davis (Team Leader), Keith Oakley} 

On Monday 13 March, Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board and University of South Wales (USW) launched a new mental health referral service for students. 

The Mental Health University Pathway (MHUP) will allow students, living in the Rhondda Cynon Taf, Merthyr Tydfil, and Bridgend county boroughs, access to mental health assessment and advice via a referral from the USW Wellbeing and Disability Service.  

Tracey Larson, Senior Nurse for Community Mental Health Services at Cwm Taf Morgannwg said: “We are really excited to work together with the USW Wellbeing Service to ensure there are seamless and timely pathways in place for mental health assessment and intervention for students who may need the  support that the Mental Health Service can provide alongside our university colleagues.” 

Following a confidential appointment and assessment, USW Mental Health Advisers are now able to refer students, directly to the NHS, for moderate to severe mental health concerns or complex/ long-standing mental health issues.  

This has been rolled out after the 2022 pilot of the NHS Mental Health University Liaison Service (MHULS) for students living in the Cardiff area. 

Sharon Jones, USW Director of Student Support Services, said: “This is an excellent development which contributes to USW providing a safe and welcoming environment that prioritizes the mental health and well-being of our students.  The ability for direct referrals will ensure timely and effective intervention allowing students to thrive academically and personally.  I’m grateful to colleagues for the time and effort invested in this partnership work.” 

More information about the USW Wellbeing Service is available at  Wellbeing | USW Wellbeing Service. 

16/03/2023