Personal experiences of UCEN Manchester’s Future U Student Support service

To mark Mental Health Awareness Week 2025 (w/c 12/5), we are shining a light on our Future U Student Support services by sharing some positive feedback from students and alumni about our offer.

The Future U Support Team at UCEN Manchester offers guidance and resources to help students achieve their career goals. They provide personalised support, including academic advice and wellbeing services.

One 2024 graduate spoke about the services, saying: “My personal experience with the support that I got from my counsellor has been one of empathy, and I have felt listened to throughout my sessions without any judgement. I was given additional sessions that have helped me gain a better perspective on my mind, allowed me to freely speak about my feelings, and most importantly, feel heard through times of adversity. This is a great service for students. Thank you for your support.”

Another student graduating this summer spoke about the invaluable support she has received from a Wellbeing Officer, saying: “Her wisdom and fantastic sense of humour have helped me through some of the most challenging times during my studies. She has truly been a dedicated advocate, which I am forever grateful for.”

When giving feedback after their sessions, one student commented: “I enjoyed counselling and found it fun and easy to talk to the counsellor.” Another said, simply: “I feel like I know and understand myself better now.”

Annette McCone, Head of Student Advice, Support and Wellbeing at UCEN Manchester, said: "Mental Health Awareness Week provides us with a platform to showcase the importance of student wellbeing throughout their studies. “At UCEN Manchester, we are committed to ensuring that every student feels supported, heard and empowered to seek help when needed. Whatever stage you’re at in your education or journey, everyone needs support sometimes. Our team will work tirelessly to provide additional support, guidance and advice when it is needed.”

Read more about the service available to all UCEN Manchester students by visiting the Supporting You section of the website. You can also check out UCEN Manchester’s mental health and wellbeing policies.