WHY CHOOSE THIS COURSE?

The cost of mental ill health to the Welsh economy is estimated to be £7.2billion each year (Mental Health Foundation, 2016). It is recognised that mental ill health can arise from a combination of factors at any point across the lifespan and that people living with mental health issues may require support from a range of services such as housing, social enterprise and community organisations in conjunction with statutory health and social care services. There is therefore a need for suitably knowledgeable practitioners to fulfil a range of emerging roles which will help to reduce the stigma, disadvantage and inequality experienced by people living with mental health issues and to work within communities to promote good mental health and wellbeing.

With a prevention and recovery-focused orientation, this dynamic programme combines theory with work based learning to ensure that our graduates are perfectly placed to access a variety of careers in this ever-developing sector. There are a range of assessments across the programme which ensure that each graduate has a full CV – students on the programme will develop anti stigma campaigns, produce health promotion leaflets and give presentations, reflecting the real life skills needed by future employers. Students will also develop their self-awareness and emotional literacy, alongside reflective and interpersonal skills – all of which are key to becoming an effective and competent practitioner.

The course is taught on two full days per week but students are expected to engage in both directed and independent study outside of these hours. Students will be assigned a personal tutor on enrolment who will support them throughout their time on the programme. The department operates an open door policy, meaning that students do not have to make an appointment in order to be able to access their personal tutor but are welcome to pop in. We also offer an established peer mentor system, so students can access support from fellow learners.