Edge Hill University
Get Connected- the importance of building connections, community, and belonging within the student experience.
This session intends to explore ‘Get Connected’, a weekly event initiative designed to foster community, belonging, and wellbeing among university students. The series offers inclusive, low-pressure opportunities for students to make new friends, try new activities, and access low-level wellbeing support in a welcoming environment. Central to its success is its integration with the Student Life ‘Wellbeing Referral Process’, allowing staff to informally identify and guide students toward further support services when needed.
Since Get Connected was established in September 2023, a number of attendees for this event have identified as neurodivergent, and the event has been intentionally designed with this in mind- hosted in a quiet space where possible, with minimal sensory overload, and supported social interactions. This emphasis on inclusivity has curated a safe space where students who might otherwise feel isolated can build confidence and meaningful peer relationships.
Get Connected acts as a springboard for broader student engagement, helping attendees build lasting friendships and feel more connected to university life. Many go on to participate in events, join societies and clubs, and pursue on-campus employment, in turn enhancing their overall student experience beyond academics. By examining the design, implementation, and outcomes of Get Connected, this session will explore how small-scale initiatives and interactions can play a powerful role in student retention, wellbeing, and success.