In praise of our members and the work they do!
We're thrilled to open nominations for our second UMHAN Awards.
Kicking off the 2025-26 academic year, we're thrilled to open nominations for our second UMHAN Awards!
The inaugural awards last November were a resounding success, culminating in a heart-warming ceremony that celebrated the incredible work of our members. (A huge thank you to former colleagues, Sam Gamblin and Michelle Davies, for their dedicated efforts in organising them!).
You might wonder: with so many awards recognizing excellence in the Higher Education sector, why did we introduce another?
Our annual member survey consistently reveals that the vital work of supporting students with mental health conditions in Higher Education often goes unrecognised and unappreciated.
Last year's survey asked members: "What would improve your wellbeing at work?"
It was interesting to note that some members felt their contributions to student mental health support were not demonstrably valued by their institutions.
This sentiment was reflected in various concerns, including limited CPD opportunities, lack of career progression, insufficient staff wellbeing support, and poor working conditions (such as inadequate physical environments or facilities). Low pay was a particular concern for our mentor members, and job security was also raised - not surprising given the financial pressure on universities and the resulting job losses we have witnessed this year. Additionally, some members desired more flexibility and autonomy regarding their timetables and work locations.
As a charity, we aim to highlight the practical and strategic benefits of the specialist roles we represent. We achieve this by sharing our member survey results with stakeholders, partners, and the wider sector to advocate for our members. While we are not a trade union and cannot represent members to their employers, we do make representations to relevant decision-making bodies on behalf of our entire membership.
We are also able to champion the outstanding efforts of our members, motivate others, and foster excellence in the field of mental health support in education.
So, please help us spread the word about this year's UMHAN Awards! More information about the award categories and the nomination form are below.
Eligibility
Nominees must be current UMHAN members.
Rules
Please see the information about who can make a nomination in relation to each award.
One form must be submitted per nomination BUT you can make as many nominations as you'd like!
You can nominate prior nominees and winners. To see last year's nominees and winners go here.
Closing date for nominations: Monday 17th November 9am.
Awards ceremony: Tuesday 16th December 1pm.
Outstanding Student Support
This award recognises an individual who has made a lasting and positive impact on an individual's mental health.
Who can be nominated?
Any current UMHAN member.
Who can make a nomination?
Students, colleagues, managers and employers.
Collaborative and Partnership Working
This award recognises collaboration and partnership working which has a positive impact on student mental health.
Who can be nominated?
Any current UMHAN member.
Who can make a nomination?
Students, colleagues, managers, employers, collaborators and partners.
Professional Practice
This award recognises professional practice across at least three areas of the UMHAN Capability and Conduct Framework.
Who can be nominated?
UMHAN Accredited Practitioners.
Who can make a nomination?
Colleagues, managers and employers.
'Rising Star' - new Student Mental Health Practitioner
Accredited Practitioner members working in the role for less than 2 years, demonstrating a passion for student mental health.
Who can be nominated?
UMHAN Accredited Practitioners.
Who can make a nomination?
Colleagues, managers and employers.
Lifetime Contribution
This award recognises UMHAN members working in the field for 10+ years who have displayed a commitment to the aims and ethos of UMHAN.
Who can be nominated?
Any current UMHAN member.
Who can make a nomination?
Colleagues, managers and employers.
Amazing Contribution to UMHAN
This award recognises a UMHAN member who has contributed to your experience of UMHAN!
Who can be nominated?
Any current UMHAN member.
Who can make a nomination?
Any current UMHAN member.
