STAFF and students at the University of Worcester pledged to perform a random act of kindness as part of an annual event working to raise awareness of mental health issues.

The university's student services team, mental health advisors and members of the student's union marked this year's national University Mental Health and Wellbeing Day on Wednesday, February 16 with a number of events working to remove the stigma around mental illness.

Along with being encouraged to add a pledge to do something to make someone's day a little bit better to the pledge wall, students and staff were also offered free hand massages as well as information and guidance on mental health issues.

Mental health advisor at the university Lisa Edmed said: "Being kind to others makes us feel good, and can brighten someone else’s day.

“We had plenty of interest from students and staff, and it was great to see so many people making pledges.

“The aim of the day is to reduce the stigma around mental health and mental illness, and to encourage students to talk more about their mental health.

“As a university it is important we make clear our support to students who experience mental illness and raise awareness of the excellent counselling and mental health service we have within the university.”

University Mental Health and Wellbeing Day takes place on the third Wednesday of February each year and encourages universities and students to talk about and tackle mental health problems.