Introducing Education Support

When the Support System Needs Support

The start of a new school year always brings a mix of nerves and excitement – a new timetable, big expectations, and the question of how to balance work and home life.

It might sound like the worries of a student heading into a new term, but it’s exactly how many teachers and school staff feel, too.

According to Education Support, a UK charity dedicated to improving the mental health and wellbeing of the education workforce, one in three education staff experience mental health challenges like anxiety or depression. Yet only 20% are aware that free specialist help is available to them.

Founded by teachers, the charity understands the role in a deeply personal way.

The Hidden Tolls of Educators

Teachers and education staff face a unique kind of pressure. They’re expected to be strong, organised, and endlessly caring – managing lessons, supporting students, hitting targets, and keeping up with rules and policies. Often, this means catching up on admin, planning, or marking when they get home.

While the practical support they provide is visible, the emotional and mental load is not. Educators often serve as the first line of support for vulnerable students, providing guidance, empathy, and consistency through pastoral care and safeguarding responsibilities.

This emotional labour is vital but rarely accounted for in workloads or timetables.

At the same time, many are managing their own health, family, or personal challenges. And when work spills into evenings and weekends, it’s often wellbeing and time with loved ones that get pushed aside.

It’s no surprise that stress and burnout are on the rise.

Real People, Real Impact

Lisa’s experience resonates with many in the sector. She was coping with menopause symptoms plus ongoing health and mental health issues. When things got too much, she used her school’s Employee Assistance Programme to get support from Education Support.

“The positive effect of having someone to listen to me was massive.”

The programme gave her access to counselling, practical advice, and legal and financial support, all in one place.

Education Support also runs a free, confidential helpline that anyone working in education can call and speak with a trained counsellor. It’s there for people dealing with professional or personal stress, complex work relationships, or just needing a safe space to talk.

Elizabeth, an experienced SEN teaching assistant, called when she recognised she was struggling with a demanding workload alongside serious illness in her family.

Lisa and Elizabeth’s stories reflect the real difference Education Support makes, providing a lifeline when life and work in education become too much.

Supporting Staff at Every Level, in Every Setting

”Working in education comes with unique challenges which require unique solutions.”

Elle Green, who has a background in teaching, explains how Education Support’s work extends beyond one-to-one help.

“We also work with school and college leaders to improve whole workplace wellbeing,” she said. “Our annual index helps identify the biggest struggles teachers face so we can create the resources they need most. We share these findings with the school’s minister to inform decisions within the government that can lead to positive and lasting change.”

For example, recent research revealed that many teachers are struggling to manage relationships with parents, prompting the charity to develop targeted resources in response. They also partnered with psychologists to deliver a webinar following the Netflix mini-series Adolescence, giving educators tools to support students and themselves.

”This is how Education Support works – they see a problem and work at all levels of the system to solve it.”

While national data highlights sector-wide challenges, many of the issues they address first emerge through direct contact; via the helpline, coaching sessions, and wellbeing programmes.

These stories help them shape research and services that truly match what staff need.

Shifting the Culture

Education Support’s mission is systemic change, pushing for better systems, policies, and support in schools.

They know that school staff carry complex emotional responsibilities and need workplaces that prioritise their wellbeing. That’s why they offer fully funded professional supervision and coaching, especially for leaders in further education.

These sessions give people space to deal with stress, reflect, and rebuild their sense of purpose.

By providing leaders with both emotional support and practical tools, Education Support empowers them to care for their own wellbeing and lead by example, causing a ripple effect that creates a more compassionate culture for staff, students, and the entire school community.

Don’t Wait for a Crisis

Elle’s advice is simple:

“If you’re struggling or just need someone to talk to, Education Support is there for you. Don’t wait until things get worse.”

Education Support is there in moments of crisis, but they’re also helping to fix the bigger picture. From making change at a national level to delivering everyday support with care and empathy, they are building a culture where everyone in education feels seen, supported and valued.

If you work in education or know someone who does, take a moment to learn more about what Education Support offers and help spread the word.

Call the free, confidential helpline: 08000 562 561 or visit: educationsupport.org.uk