University of the West of England, Bristol

Sustainable Global Public Health: A module of learning for undergraduate nursing students

An innovative and unique, compulsory module exploring sustainability in healthcare and public health. The 10 taught day module covers a range of topics where sustainability, climate change, ecological deterioration and environmental threat are explored to show the inter-relationship between the health of populations and the health of the planet and the interconnectivity of health inequalities.

The module team designed a series of lecturer-led and enquiry-based sessions where students gain knowledge of public health and sustainability and applied it to healthcare in general. Our key stone session is the UN SDG enquiry day where students explore an SDG and design something that would be practical to deliver with service users. For example, how could young women in Bristol be supported and mentored to start cooperatives and social enterprises that address regeneration issues? How might these improve health?

One group designed WHAT which stands for Women Helping All Together. This scheme focussed on supported and peer approaches to empower young, homeless women affected by domestic violence. The goal was to tackle to physical and mental health inequalities amongst this marginalised group.

What the Judges Thought

The judges thought this was a powerful early intervention for students studying a discipline that does not ordinarily offer insight or training into sustainability. The testimonials supplied demonstrated the impact of this program on nursing students and we look forward to seeing what impact they have through their future careers. 

What it Means to Win

"Sustainability is at the heart of Transforming Futures, UWE’s Strategy 2030. Winning this Green Gown award is welcome recognition for the many actions of students and staff that are helping to make UWE Bristol a more sustainable university."

Professor Steve West, Vice Chancellor, President and CEO

Top 3 Learnings

1. Introduces students to highly contemporary aspects of nursing and explores the importance of sustainability in healthcare.
2. Providing longevity and to future proof health services, health education and linking this to sustainable practice. 
3. Students explored the UN Sustainable development goals (all 17) and applied them to healthcare practice facing situations that would have real world impact and relevance.