Addressing University Mental Health Support With OneSpace
As highlighted in Joe McFadden’s BBC article, systemic failures persist in how UK higher education institutions respond to student mental health needs. Universities are under immense pressure, but many support systems remain fragmented, slow, and difficult for students to navigate.
Students often begin by approaching a tutor or non-clinical wellbeing team, only to find themselves stuck in long NHS waiting lists with no immediate help. Delays, repeated assessments, and inadequate responses create a deeply isolating experience—especially for those in crisis.
OneSpace: A Digital Solution for Student Mental Health and Transitions
Created by UMO, OneSpace is a mobile-based digital support tool that bridges the gap between institutional systems and student needs. Its core feature—the Wellbeing Passport—gives students ownership over a structured support profile that can be securely shared across university and workplace transitions.
AI-Guided Reflection and Proactive Support
OneSpace includes an AI personal assistant that encourages self-reflection, offers tailored wellbeing prompts, and supports early self-management—long before students reach a crisis point.
This is particularly powerful for students reluctant to speak face-to-face. With OneSpace, they can start building their support plan privately and safely.
Risk Triage and On-Demand Support
The platform includes a robust AI-led triage and risk assessment tool based on models like the Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS). Students are assessed and then routed to the most appropriate support: whether that’s self-help, university services, or clinician intervention.
The optional clinician chat feature enables low-barrier access to professional advice—especially valuable for students waiting on formal services or in need of immediate reassurance.
Secure Vault and Sharing Controls
OneSpace includes a secure document vault (OneVault) that allows students to upload and manage reports, care plans, and diagnoses. These can be shared with trusted support staff, reducing admin delays and improving care continuity.
How OneSpace Addresses Sector Needs
- Student-centred disclosure: Reduces repeat storytelling and empowers students to communicate on their own terms.
- Streamlined pathways: Guides students clearly from initial need to appropriate support.
- Scalable early support: Uses digital tools to catch problems before they escalate.
- Cross-transition continuity: Ensures that support moves with the student from university to workplace.
Next Steps for HEIs
OneSpace is designed to integrate with your university’s support services, without replacing them. It reduces pressure on frontline staff while empowering students with self-managed tools and better continuity of care.
For more on implementing OneSpace in your institution: