Julius Little
28 Oct 2019 · Coroner Graeme Irvine · London Inner (North)
A similar concern from this report was raised again 1 time later. See the linked reports.
The coroner's concerns
1. students with disclosed mental health problems not receiving support
“In the course of hearing an inquest at Poplar Coroner's Court on 9/10/19 into the death of [the deceased] [name redacted], evidence was considered in relation to available support services offered to undergraduates at UAL who have a history of mental health problems.”
2. students with disclosed mental health problems not responding to support invitations
“the admitting university. indicated that the mental health disclosure information is used to target students that may require support, and at UAL emails are sent to undergraduates, inviting them to register with the university's support services. Regrettably”
3. mental health disclosure information not communicated to tutors and halls of residence staff
“I was informed that this information was not so disseminated as it would be breach of data protection legislation, this appears to be a missed opportunity.”
Linked reports
Closely relatedConfidence 0.85 · high
This report
“The application invites them to disclose any history they have of mental health problems, upon being accepted on a course of study this information is provided to the admitting university.”
Later report
“The option for applicants to disclose a mental health illness should be considered separate to them confirming whether they have any 'disability' or 'special needs'”
Responses
2019-0371-Response-by-UAL.pdf ↗· Universities and Colleges Admissions Service
Stated action · 2019/20 academic year
“we have made improvements to our processes for engaging disabled students, including those with long-term mental health conditions, with our support services. At the point that the information in respect of mental health conditions is shared with the university by UCAS, a pre- and post-enrolment email campaign is initiated, asking students to engage with support services. Our Disability Advisers make contact with students who have declared a disability and are requesting support. In addition, Disability”
2019-0371-Response-by-UCAS.pdf ↗· Universities and Colleges Admissions Service
Stated action · new year
“We have been reviewing the questions we currently ask applicants on the UCAS application, and considering how we can improve the flow of information between the student and the course provider.”