Holistic and Inclusive Support Models

2.4 Holistic and Inclusive Support Models

Holistic support service for students involves a whole-institution approach to well-being and success. It addresses academic, social, emotional, and financial needs. The Student Minds University Mental Health Charter (2021) advocates for integrated mental health policies embedded within leadership, curricula, and student services, a framework that many institutions of higher learning (including University of Sunderland, London) have integrated to revamp student-centred mental health and wellbeing initiatives—and promote academic excellence (Bath & Meza, 2023).

On this premise, higher education researchers often align with Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory (1979) emphasizes that various interactions at different levels—from peers and academic staff (microsystem) to institutional policies and national regulations (macrosystem)—shape students’ wellbeing, academic performance, and engagement. This model posits that student cannot excel through isolated interventions but requires systemic coherence to achieve success (Nguyen & Browne, 2021).

In a multicultural or internationalised academic setting like the University of Sunderland in London, students require culturally responsive support to adapt with academic and sociocultural rigours and achieve excellence (McKay & Meza, 2024). Sakız and Jencius (2024) suggest that international students benefit more from peer-led, culturally adapted mental health programmes. Similarly, McKay and Meza (2024) found that peer mentoring and community-building activities foster a sense of belonging among students, which is a key determinant of academic motivation and retention.

Financial support is also an important aspect of the holistic model suggested by Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological Systems Theory. Remskar et al (2022) and Allen et al (2022) agree that emergency funds, scholarship access, and career services play an indirect role in reducing anxiety and depression among students, thus, supporting academic performance.