Presentation
As a large and diverse institution with over 40,000 students, it is an unfortunate reality that a member of our student body could die during the course of their studies. In such circumstances, Manchester Metropolitan University follows a well-established protocol to ensure a compassionate, coordinated response, providing support to the student’s family and friends, as well as to staff and fellow students.
This session will outline key aspects of the University’s approach, sharing how processes have been refined and enhanced over time to deliver a whole University response. Topics will include:
To illustrate our approach, the session will feature anonymised case studies that reflect real scenarios and demonstrate how the University has learned through experience and how we support our community during difficult circumstances.
We will also provide information on the University’s planned approach to the recommendations outlined in the National Review of HE Suicides, as well as the UUK guidance, ‘Collective Responsibility, Collective Action to Prevent Student Suicide.
Caroline has over 30 years’ experience in higher education administration, working in faculty administration at the University of Manchester before moving to Manchester Metropolitan to support institutional student experience initiatives. As part of her current role, Caroline leads on the identification and management of aspects of risk to students and to the institution. She is passionate about removing barriers to opportunity and supporting students to get the most out of all that a university experience has to offer.
Jenny brings over 30 years of experience in both further and higher education, having held a variety of academic and professional service roles.
In recognition of her exceptional leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, Jenny was awarded the University Citizenship Award at the 2021 staff awards. Under her leadership, several teams within her portfolio have also received institutional recognition through Manchester Metropolitan University staff awards. These include MMU Sport, which was Highly Commended in the ‘Student Experience’ category in 2025; Disability Services, which won ‘Student Initiative of the Year’ in 2021; and Counselling Services, which was named Team of the Year in 2021.
In her current role, Jenny leads the strategic development and delivery of a broad portfolio of student-facing services. These include Counselling, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Inclusion and Disability Services, Student Welfare and Pastoral Support (including Peer Guides, PAL Leaders and Inclusive Learning Communities), Sport, Student Engagement, Academic Study Skills, Student Financial Support, and Student Operations.
Her work is underpinned by a deep commitment to placing students at the heart of all activity. Jenny is passionate about creating inclusive, supportive environments and driving continuous improvements that enhance the student experience and positively shape the lives of young people every day.
Vicki Garry works in the Academic Registrar’s Office at Manchester Metropolitan University and has responsibility for project delivery, strategic planning and the operational management of key areas of compliance. With over a decade of experience in the higher education sector, Vicki has a strong track record of successfully leading cross-functional teams to deliver impactful projects that enhance the student experience.
