Understanding Loneliness at University: The power of Peer Research
At Neighbourly Lab, our work focuses on supporting those who would benefit most from greater connection and support and we know university students are included in this. We know loneliness at universities is a huge problem and is becoming more prevalent. from national statistics alone, affecting students’ experiences while studying and negatively impacting their mental health. According to UPP foundation’s student futures report, 44% of students agree with the statement “I feel lonely at university” and 22% felt that their university experience had adverse effects on their mental health.
We were determined to work on a solution, not just with staff, but with the students themselves. Thanks to funding from the Creating Opportunities for Local Innovation Fellowships (COLIF), we were able to do this incredible piece of work, working collaboratively to co-design solutions to increase social connection in university.
Every student deserves to feel connected and also to help shape these solutions that will increase social connection. This is why embedding a participatory approach, working with students as Peer Researchers and experts of lived experience was crucial. We brought a diverse group of 8 students together, trained them to carry out intercept and in depth interviews, and set up working groups with the four participating institutions – SOAS, LSE, University of Surrey and Royal Holloway University.
In this webinar, we are going to hear from two of the peer researchers about how this approach provided a rich insight into the lives of students and their need for social connection. We’ll also hear about their experiences as Peer Researchers and the value of talking to other people about something usually quite stigmatised. We’ll share some key insights, opportunities and hopefully have an interesting conversation.