Speakers
Discussion
In this session, Simon Merrywest (Executive Director for the Student Experience at University of Manchester) shares his expertise on his involvement and research about student suicide and other student deaths. Simon has been an instrumental contributor to sector guidance titled 'How to respond to a student suicide' and 'Collective responsibility, collective action to prevent student suicide'. He was also a member of the advisory group on the national review of student suicides. In his own institution, he leads the response to any student and staff death, and he has significant experience of working with bereaved families and giving evidence through the coronial process.
He'll answer your questions and share insights where you'll be able to reflect, learn and share honest dialogue.
Dr. Simon Merrywest has been Executive Director for the Student Experience at The University of Manchester since 2017. His team support students through their journey from recruitment to graduation, including the extensive provision of student wellbeing and more specialist support. They also run a large residential and sport portfolio and operate four overseas centres. He is also co-sponsor of the university’s ambitious residential redevelopment programme. Simon’s previous roles include Director of Faculty Operations for the Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health.
Simon co-edited and co-authored the UUK, PAPYRUS and Samaritans HE Postvention Guidance, published in December 2022, to guide HE senior leaders to respond sensitively and quickly after an unexpected student death by suspected suicide. He co-authored and edited more recent guidance: ‘Collective responsibility, collective action to prevent student suicide; Guidance for the higher education sector to reduce risk and restrict access to means of suicide’. He is co-chair of the Greater Manchester Student Mental Health Service Board and was a member of the Expert Advisory Group for the National Confidential Inquiry review of suspected student suicides as well as the TASO Mental Health and Wellbeing Advisory Group.
:
https://www.staffnet.manchester.ac.uk/dse/about/our-people/simonmerrywest/
:
/simon-merrywest-2852823b