A recent survey revealed that nearly 90% of university students are calling for greater transparency when it comes to suicides, following the tragic death of Harry Armstrong Evans. The undergraduate took his own life in 2021 after struggling with mental health issues. The survey is part of a wider campaign by his parents, who have been calling for a “Harry’s law” which would require universities to publish their annual student suicide rate. Armstrong Evans’ parents had previously criticised Exeter University for their poor handling of his case, saying that they had failed to effectively respond to his calls for help. The survey was conducted by student news site, the Tab and involved over 4,000 students from more than 30 UK universities, including all Russell Group institutions.
The majority of students who took part in the survey said that they would like universities to take greater responsibility for student welfare, with 88% of respondents calling for more transparency and accountability from institutions. Izzy Schifano, a contributors editor at the Tab, said that students have had it particularly tough over the past three years, but their mental health concerns have not been given sufficient attention in the media or by the government. She argued that students deserve better support from their universities and should not be left in the dark when it comes to suicides on campus.
Armstrong Evans’ parents agreed, saying that greater transparency could help to prevent other families from experiencing the same devastating loss that they have suffered. They believe that students should be informed about suicide rates at their universities and that more attention should be given to analysing deaths by each course subject. Though they acknowledge that nothing will ever bring their son back, they hope that their campaign will help to ensure that universities prioritise student welfare over commercial objectives.
Jacqui Morrissey, a spokesperson for the Samaritans, echoed this sentiment, arguing that both universities and the government should do more to encourage students to talk about their mental health. While suicide rates among students are lower than among people of the same age who are not in education, Morrissey said that suicide remains a taboo subject and that breaking the silence around it is essential to saving lives.
Exeter University said that it was deeply saddened by Armstrong Evans’ death and is committed to supporting the mental health of its students. However, the institution has faced criticism in the past for failing to respond effectively to student suicide. Over the past six years, there have been eight confirmed suicides of Exeter University students, with a further three likely to be confirmed as suicides in upcoming inquests.
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