Student exercise referral scheme

Our scheme provides support and guidance through physical activity for students who qualify. Take a look at how the scheme works here at The University and the requirements for accessing.

The scheme

The purpose of The Exercise Referral Scheme is to provide students experiencing difficulties with their physical or psychological well-being the opportunity to be supported in accessing some form of physical activity.

Through a relaxed & less intimidating approach, the scheme aims to encourage students to use physical activity to use their leisure time effectively & make time for having fun whilst exercising.

Research into the effects of physical activity shows that it can be beneficial to people’s mental health as well as their physical wellbeing.

Exercise releases endorphins (happy chemicals produced by the brain) that can have a positive effect on our mood & the way that we feel about ourselves & the world around us. Participating in exercise will help students to meet new people, make new friends, get fitter & have fun.

The scheme is available to students who are currently receiving ongoing support from the University Wellbeing Team or one the Mental Health Advisory Services.

The scheme targets those who may benefit from increased physical activity levels & extra guidance & support in doing this. Ideally students will have some knowledge of the benefits of physical activity & demonstrate commitment & motivation.

Scheme criteria

Students can be referred for one or more of the following issue:

• Persistant low mood
• Stress
• Mild to moderate depression
• Anxiety
• Persistant sleep issues
• Body image
• Loneliness or isolation
• Significantly overweight or underweight (leading to depression, anxiety or stress etc)
• Low self confidence or poor self esteem.

How it works

Referrals will receive a 6 week FREE Membership to the Sports & Fitness Centre, which includes unlimited access to the gym & swimming pool, full use of facilities including badminton & squash courts, fitness classes & campus walks.

Students can be referred to the Exercise Referral Scheme by the LTSO’s, Counselling, Wellbeing, Disability, and Mental Health Advisory teams. This is to evaluate emotional wellbeing upon entry to the Exercise Referral Scheme. Students will also be asked to give consent to be contacted at the end of the 6 week trial to provide feedback relating to the scheme.

Once the relevant information has been gathered it will be sent directly to Emma Swinney at the Sports & Fitness Centre. Students are then invited to get booked in for a Health Check, Tour & Induction (if required).

Following the initial meeting, students will be able to access all facilities at their leisure however there will always be a Fitness Consultant on duty should they have any questions or require any further guidance.