About us

The Healthy Campus initiative reflects the institution’s commitment to fostering a learning and working environment in which health, wellbeing, and academic excellence are mutually reinforcing. In line with the principles of the HEA Healthy Campus Framework, the initiative adopts a whole campus, whole system perspective, recognising that wellbeing is shaped not only by individual supports but also by institutional culture, policy coherence, and the broader campus environment.

Healthy UCC is committed to fostering a healthy university environment by assessing needs, enhancing existing practices, and developing policies, action plans, and initiatives across five key areas. Through collaboration with students, staff, and partners, Healthy UCC promotes a whole-campus approach to health, wellbeing, and sustainability:

• Leadership, Strategy and Governance
• Campus Environment (Facilities and Services)
• Campus Culture and Communications
• Personal and Professional Development
• Health Focused Areas

Members Steering Committee

^{*During the 2025/2026 period, the Mental Health Action Group and the Alcohol, Drugs and Tobacco Action Group were amalgamated into a single group. This arrangement is subject to ongoing review, and the groups may be re-established as separate entities if deemed appropriate.}

History

University College Cork (UCC) has a long-standing commitment to promoting health and well-being across its campus community. In 2010, UCC began its journey toward becoming a Health Promoting University (HPU), setting in motion a vision to create a culture of health and wellness that reaches every part of university life.

By 2015, UCC became the first university in Ireland to achieve official HPU status. This milestone was supported by the Health Matters initiative—an inclusive, collaborative effort between staff and students dedicated to creating a healthier campus environment for all. The work was structured around six key action areas, guided by a steering committee and working groups that continue to drive progress and innovation. That same year, UCC proudly represented Ireland at the drafting and signing of the Okanagan Charter, an international framework for Health Promoting Universities and Colleges. The Charter calls on institutions to “create campus cultures of compassion, well-being, equity, and social justice; improve the health of the people who live, learn, work, play, and love on our campuses; and strengthen the ecological, social, and economic sustainability of our communities and wider society.”

Building on this foundation, in January 2023, UCC signed the Healthy Campus Charter, reaffirming its pledge to enhance the health and well-being of students, staff, and the wider community. 

Stakeholders and Partnerships