Bridgette M Bewick

Prof Bridgette M Bewick is a Professor in Psychological Health, Wellbeing, and Education at the School of Medicine, University of Leeds. She is a Chartered Psychologist and Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, with a strong leadership role in equity, inclusion, and diversity. She serves as the Academic Lead for Belonging and Compassionate Curriculum initiatives at the university, driving transformative programs to enhance student wellbeing and inclusion.

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), School of Medicine, University of Leeds
• MA Psychology, Auckland University (First Class Honors)
• BA Psychology and Education, Auckland University (Equivalent to First Class Honors)
• University of Leeds Teaching Award Professional Standard 2 (ULTA-2)

Her research centers on student mental health, belonging, inclusive and compassionate pedagogies, and the social norms approach to behavior change. She investigates how educational environments can be redesigned to support psychological wellbeing and reduce distress, particularly through arts-based and curriculum-integrated interventions.

Her recent publications (2021–2024) reflect a strong focus on student wellbeing measurement, mental health during the pandemic, digital interventions for addiction, and creative approaches to fostering belonging. These works span psychology, public health, education, and digital health, showing an interdisciplinary commitment to improving higher education experiences.

• Society for the Study of Addiction Fred Yates Researcher of the Year Prize (2012)
• University of Leeds Women of Achievement (2013)

She leads the Pedagogical Wellbeing Network and the 'I belong' Creative Connections initiative, supported by university-wide grants and collaborations. Her work has influenced institutional policy and practice in mental health and inclusion. She is also a University LGBT Role Model and an advocate for equity in academia.

Her lab and research group affiliations include the Leeds Institute of Health Sciences, Psychological and Social Medicine, and Health Services Research. She welcomes PhD students and collaborates on interdisciplinary projects related to student wellbeing, digital health, and educational innovation.