
Work-life balance, mental health and family-friendly policies as part of a sustainable university culture
Work-life balance, mental health and family-friendly policies as part of a sustainable university culture
SRH University has been awarded the certificate of the audit familiengerechte hochschule ("family-friendly university audit") for the sixth consecutive time. This year’s distinction is particularly noteworthy: for the first time, all 18 SRH University campuses across Germany have been accredited. The award recognises the university’s long-standing commitment to supporting the balance between work, study, family responsibilities and personal life, as well as its sustainable integration of family-friendly structures into both its organisational framework and university culture.
The certificate is awarded by berufundfamilie Service GmbH as part of a nationally established audit process conducted under the patronage of the German Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (Bundesministerium für Familie, Senioren, Frauen und Jugend). The certification is widely recognised as a quality seal for the strategic and sustainable development of family-friendly working, research and study conditions.
“Today, balancing different areas of life means more than simply reconciling work and family commitments. It also encompasses mental wellbeing, individual life circumstances and the ability to access support in challenging situations. Our goal is to create conditions that enable people to remain healthy, productive and successful over the long term,” says Professor Marion Wüchner-Fuchs, National Diversity Officer at SRH University.
Among the university’s established initiatives is the SRH Eltern-Kompass (SRH Parent Compass), a free advisory service for employees in their role as parents. Support is available by telephone, online or in person, providing families with fast, professional and straightforward assistance in dealing with both everyday concerns and more complex challenges.
For students, SRH University promotes a supportive learning environment through flexible study arrangements, digital and hybrid learning opportunities, and individual accommodations in special life circumstances. In addition, the university places a strong emphasis on both physical and mental wellbeing. Initiatives such as the SRH Gesundheitstag (SRH Health Day) encourage preventive health measures, foster open dialogue and promote healthy working practices.
SRH University has participated in the audit familiengerechte hochschule for many years. As part of the audit process, existing measures are regularly reviewed, further developed and adapted to the evolving needs of both employees and students. Receiving the certification for the sixth consecutive time underlines the importance of a family-friendly university as a key factor in promoting equal opportunities, enhancing employer attractiveness and contributing to a sustainable future for education and work.