The impact of the pandemic on teaching and school staff has been significant. However, support for teachers has not always been prioritised and many teachers report struggling to balance their own mental health and safety needs alongside assisting pupils and advising parents. The resources below are designed to help you care for yourself as you provide care for others.
If you are concerned about your own wellbeing (including your mental health, workload, worries about burnout, or workplace bullying) you can speak to your:
- Union rep
- Designated Mental Health Lead (if available)
- GP (family doctor)
- Charities and helplines (see below)
In addition the charities, organisations and information below are available for you to share concerns; seek advice; or clarify your rights, accommodations and support needs.
Education Support is a charity providing mental health and wellbeing advice to school and college staff. Alongside online advice and information they have a free helpline (Telephone 08000 562 561).
Mental Health at Work have a dedicated toolkit for educators working in the pandemic alongside a phone advice service (Telephone 116 123) or text KEYWORKER to 85258.
The Anna Freud Centre has toolkits, advice and information on supporting staff wellbeing in Mentally Healthy Schools.
Wellbeing Connected have a template Staff Wellbeing Policy and Evaluation Form you could use within your workplace
BBC Teach have lots of practical teacher support articles on all aspects of teaching, including mental health.
The Department for Education has a school workload reduction kit that may be relevant to those who are experiencing stress and burnout due to overwork.
The Mental Health Foundation have a free guide ‘Rethinking Rest’ for those who feel overwhelmed.