Mental Wellbeing in HE Conference 2026: It’s Not About Doing More, It’s About Doing It Differently: Intentional, Inclusive and Mental Health-Informed Practice in Higher Education

Professor Joanne Berry, Swansea University is an ancient historian by training and has published widely on Roman urbanisation and domestic life. However, she has a passionate interest in learning and teaching, and in student experience more generally. In 2024, she co-produced the Advance HE Compendium: Embedding wellbeing in the curriculum: a global compendium of good practice, and she has since led an extensive curriculum transformation project in the School of Culture and Communication at Swansea University, focusing on inclusivity in learning, teaching, and assessment. She is currently leading an institutional project focusing on inclusive assessment, reasonable adjustments and alternative assessments. This involves policy and process, as well as support and guidance for academics, and builds upon previous experiences of finding practical ways to implement university strategies and priorities.

Edward Watkins is Professor of Experimental and Applied Clinical Psychology at the School of Psychology, University of Exeter. He is a chartered clinical psychologist specialising in cognitive-
behavioural therapy and director of the Mood Disorders Centre at the University of Exeter.

Donny is the Founder of Safeguarding HE, a safeguarding consultancy and training provider specialising in the higher education sector. Beginning his career in 2008 as a Resident Assistant, Donny progressed through a range of student support roles before becoming Director of Student Support Services, where he oversaw a broad portfolio including mental health and counselling provision, disability support, and residence life. He has also held appointments as a Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) across several institutions and organisations, developing extensive experience in partnership working with local authorities, NHS services, and regulatory bodies. Donny’s professional expertise is strengthened by his legal background and many years of experience in policy development and governance.

Kirsty has held the position of Manager of Welfare and Counselling Services at Newcastle University since 2021. As a strategic and compassionate leader, with vast experience in student mental health, counselling, and wellbeing services across higher and secondary education, Kirsty has a proven track record in leading system-level change, building psychologically safe teams and collaborative cultures. Kirsty is also a member of the HUCS specialist interest group executive committee.