At HCA we believe your wellbeing should always come first, and we want to support you to reach your full creative potential, while enjoying all aspects of campus life.
As a relatively small campus, we have fostered a friendly and supportive environment where individuality is encouraged and celebrated, but we understand that some days are harder than others, so we have put together this handy guide to wellbeing and self care at HCA:
Greenspaces
Making sure we take a moment for some headroom during busy periods can be an incredibly important part of our mental wellbeing. Immersing ourselves in nature can help us reset, and approach the rest of our week feeling better prepared to handle challenges. This easy act of self care can be a fantastic preventative measure.
In Hereford, we are lucky to have all the benefits of city life with plenty of green spaces right on our doorstep. Here are some of our top picks for nearby walks:
Within walking distance:
- Lugg Flats
- Bishops Meadows
- Castle Green
- Churchill Gardens
Further afield:
- Creddon Hill Woods
- Malvern Hills
- Symonds Yat
- Mortimer Forest
- Black Hill
- Eastnor Castle
A holistic approach to your education
With small course groups, you will get to know not only your fellow students, but also your course leaders, lecturers and tech dems very well over your time here. Our academic staff focus on a holistic approach to creative learning, drawing on their own experience as creative professionals to help you realise your potential as a resilient and confident future artist.
We also host multiple guest speakers throughout the year, who provide an insight into all aspects of life as a creative professional – making sure that you are fully prepared for the highs and lows of life as a talented emerging artist.
Accessing further support
Our wellbeing team are ready to help with your concerns, with signposting services, drop in sessions and a large, welcoming wellbeing space. Here they hold regular workshops and seminars to promote all our students’ health and wellbeing and provide them with the skills and proactive strategies to allow them to put their health and happiness first.
We also have a dedicated independent counsellor, based on site at the College Road campus, who is available to all students and provides advice and guidance for both FE and HE students. They provide a safe space for students to discuss any issue large or small, and can also advise, signpost, and support in areas such as mental health and relationships. They are also able to refer students to external agencies where necessary.
Our 24/7 helpline, run by Health Assured, allows students round the clock access to help and advice on their terms. They also provide all students with access to the Wisdom – Health Assured app which provides easy access support.
Our wellbeing page on the student web page ensures everyone has access to wellbeing and mental health support and information, including a useful self referral button and information guiding students through accessing support on campus. Our support services have scored a much higher than average 95% for student satisfaction – something we are still keen to keep improving upon as we constantly engage with our students needs.
Any Questions? Get in touch with our wellbeing support team – wellbeing@hca.ac.uk