The Wellbeing Award

“This society focus on wellbeing in everything they do. They are clearly a strong support network for their members and we loved how they’ve engaged the local community in their activities, too.”

Derby Occupational Therapy Society (DOTS)

Why was there a need to do this activity?

Mental health is a massive issue for students and this society puts this at the forefront of all of their activities.

DOTS organised a ‘Self-Love Week’to raise awareness of Eating Disorder Awareness Week, by creating 7 days of inclusive events, open to the public, to raise awareness of mental health.

They also supported students by opening the society to all students, and the local community, encouraging people to join in. They want to provide equal opportunities for all to become involved and build friendships, experience educational opportunities, and make a difference within the community.

The society provide regular revision sessions for students, not only to attend and ask assignment questions, but to also discuss assignment concerns and feedback. This is to promote positive communication and provide peer supported learning.

What difference has the society made to student wellbeing?

One of their members said that DOTS “creates a positive, loving atmosphere where everyone is welcome”.

Their ‘Self-Love Week’ improved student wellbeing by encouraging people to open up and chat, create new friendships and support networks, but to also have fun!

What did they organise?

Self-Love Week’ had so many activities: 

Monday - handing out positive notes with crochet hearts

Tuesday - yoga 

Wednesday -  film night

Thursday - PJ day

Friday - bake sale

Saturday - coffee morning 

Sunday - therapeutic dog walk  

Outside of ‘Self-Love Week’, DOTS also organised peer assisted learning (revision sessions, presentation practice sessions, question and answer sessions) and cohort integration (where a student linked to each tutor group so everyone had a 'go to' mentor). 

Finally, they arrange therapeutic walks, dog walks, crunch break (craft and lunch), meals, coffee mornings, nights out and activities on isolated days (such as Fathers day for people who have lost parents). 

How have they ensured their society is sustainable?

The society has a person from each year involved in running the society, and they recruit a first year and foundation year every year so it can rotate.

They have created templates for risk assessing, minuting meetings, budget proposals, and more, so that they can be continued within the future.