AYRSHIRE College has appointed a new Mental Health Liaison Officer, a partnership post created and funded between the College and NHS Ayrshire & Arran.
Hugh Dykes joins the college after spending 10 years in NHS Ayrshire & Arran’s Crisis Resolution Team.
After just a few weeks in the role, Hugh has already delivered mandatory workshops to Level 4 and Level 5 students at the College. Hugh’s main aim is to talk to as many students and staff as possible, making them aware of mental health issues and giving them effective guidance and support.
Hugh will also be able to signpost people to the appropriate services in order to get further help if necessary.
Hugh said “This is an interesting role and I think it’s something that’s much-needed for the students. If you look at the statistics, one in 10 of our students are coming through the door stating they have a mental health issue. That’s not counting students who have not disclosed or who might develop a problem thereafter.
“I hope I can help to give support to students and signpost them appropriately. It’s important to prevent mental health problems worsening to a mental health disorder."
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