Welcome to a new chapter for UMHAN

Following the launch event in August, we are thrilled to officially introduce the UMHAN Research Network!

If you work on the front line as a Mental Health Adviser, Specialist Mentor, Manager or wellbeing and mental health support professional, it can sometimes feel like academic research is something that happens elsewhere, disconnected from the daily reality of high caseloads and complex student needs.

But... you are already doing research every single day.

Every time you evaluate your casework, track outcome measurement tools, adapt strategies to support neurodivergent students, or pilot a new support initiative or approach, you are gathering vital, practice-based evidence. The UMHAN Research Network was created to bridge the gap between daily practice and academic literature, ensuring your expertise shapes the future of student mental health.

You Spoke, We Listened: Designed Around Your Feedback

During our launch event consultations and polls, you gave us clear, candid feedback on what you need, and what barriers get in your way. We listened, and we have built a network model designed around you.

Free for UMHAN Members

Full access to the UMHAN Research Network is included in your existing UMHAN membership at zero extra cost. 

Non-UMHAN members will pay a small, annual subscription fee to ensure long-term network sustainability.

'Bite-sized' digests

No one has time to read 30-page academic journal articles between student appointments! Practitioners highlighted a need for accessible, practical takeaways. The Research Network newsletter (one every 4 months) will deliver concise research summaries that translate complex papers into actionable strategies.

Evaluating 'what doesn't work'

Research isn't just about celebrating flawless interventions. Launch event attendees advocated for evaluating implementation failures and unexpected challenges. So we will consider those too. 

Practical CPD & skill-building workshops

Navigating university ethics boards, understanding research methodology, or designing evaluation frameworks can feel daunting. We are launching targeted, practitioner-focused CPD training covering writing for dissemination, Theory of Change, ethics and co-production. 

A supportive community

We are creating a friendly, low-barrier space where everyone's experience is valued. You may have some experience of undertaking research in your studies (past or present), or in your role or it's totally new to you and you are just interested in developing your skills and interests. 

You're all welcome! 

Meeting 1 

The first meeting of the UMHAN Research Network will be held on 3rd February 2027 at 1pm. 

For more information and to book a ticket.