A STUDENT services department has scooped a top award for its work addressing mental health.

The team from Middlesbrough College was praised for making a positive impact on the students' health ahead of exam results.

They picked up the Overall Student Services Team Award at a National Association for Managers of Student Services (NAMSS) ceremony.

Since the start of the academic year, the team has changed the way they support students with mental health, adapting the enrolment process to introduce an enhanced mental health declaration.

This, coupled with a new online referral system for students, means that they are more likely to seek support earlier on.

Mike Bulmer, student services manager, said: “The team have brought mental health support to the forefront of the College. This has had a huge impact on our tutors understanding of how to support students with mental health and where and when to refer, if appropriate.

“This has led to a 75 percent increase in the number of student referrals against last year, with an overall 99.2 percent retention rate for students in counselling, compared to 80 percent the previous year.”

The award comes alongside a cash prize of £1,500 which will be used to further invest in the services and resources available to students.