An update from Sheila Feb 2026.  Setting up a Renew Wellbeing space under the governance of a university chaplaincy supported by a local church was going to be a pioneer experience.

As would be expected when it comes to Renew Wellbeing, God is the tour guide. The Church of Scotland chaplain “happened” to be a support minister in the local church where someone who had previously run a RW space in another area was keen to explore where the need lay locally. Various conversations all pointed towards joining forces at the university to set up a Renew Wellbeing Space open to students and staff. Later it became apparent that student family members might also benefit.

Strong links exist between the Chaplaincy and Student support services so from the start the student mental health support services have embraced Renew Wellbeing, promoting it at all opportunities e.g. welcome and open days. Local Street Pastors are on campus weekly and carry invites to the Renew Wellbeing space. A few of the churches in Stirling run food banks which students attend and they too have invites.

A very recent conversation between a church leader and the mental health nurse at the local health centre has led to the nurse being prepared to signpost appropriate patients to the space. There has been a slow but steady uptake and already many lessons have been learned. We have questions to address for the next university year such as “what should we call the space?” and “How do we get information to student accommodations?” but we already have a few people interested in becoming hosts and know that with God as our guide we won’t get lost.

One of our most faithful regulars gave us the following review.

From my first visit at Renew Wellbeing, I felt welcomed and supported, it is an inclusive space where people usually drop in and we have friendly chat, it is a very calm environment, and prayers are held at intervals which I find very comforting. The hosts are so humble and approachable. One of them teaches me how to knit using magic loop and knits the diAicult bit of my knitting. The other host searches for job opportunities and suggest places I could apply to. One always encourages my awful knitting and the other assured me last week they are praying for me. I have enjoyed their care so much.

Overall I have found encouragement, company and support in this renew well-being space and I am grateful to the hosts.

Thank you for sharing your story Sheila.