Cardiff University has issued a heartfelt admission following the tragic death of 21-year-old student Mared Foulkes from Anglesey. Mared, who was studying pharmaceuticals, took her own life just seven hours after receiving an incorrect email stating she had failed her exams. The result was soon corrected to a pass, but the error had already had a devastating impact.
For the first time, the university has publicly spoken about the incident, with Vice Chancellor Wendy Larner expressing condolences and acknowledging that the university “could’ve done better.” She assured that steps have been taken to prevent such tragedies in the future, including changes to the way exam results are communicated to students.
The university has also adopted a system allowing students to list a trusted contact for emergencies, ensuring there’s someone to reach out to if they’re struggling. This move comes after Mared’s family discovered she had sought help from university support services months before her death.
Highlighting the need for better communication, Mared’s mother, Iona, described the original email as “devastating,” noting it provided no guidance or reassurance, just the harsh word “FAIL.”
Since this tragic event, Cardiff University has implemented changes, including offering immediate verification for exam results, and expanding support services. Students can now engage with on-campus NHS staff for additional mental health support.
If you or someone you know is feeling overwhelmed, support is available. You can contact Mind Cymru at 0300 123 3393, Samaritans at 116 123, or C.A.L.L. at 0800 132 737 for assistance. Your mental health matters. Reach out and take that first step toward getting the support you deserve.