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Affordable one-to-one therapy offered to teachers

A new scheme to offer affordable one-to-one therapy sessions for education staff has been launched by Teacher Support Network and Anxiety UK.

Teachers and support staff can take part in six sessions with a trained therapist in person, via a webcam or by telephone. A pilot of the project involving 40 people is running until December. 

More than one in 10 people are likely to have a disabling anxiety order at some stage in their life, according to Anxiety UK. 

Meanwhile, the Teacher Support Network has seen more than 12,800 calls to its 24/7 helpline relating to stress, anxiety, depression and other mental health issues over the last two years. 

Applicants will be charged between £15 and £50 per session depending on their household income. Those in severe financial difficulties can apply for help to pay through Teacher Support Network’s grant scheme.

Julian Stanley, chief executive of Teacher Support Network Group, said: “We are hearing from teachers that there is a real demand for more personalised, emotional therapy sessions. 

“The scheme will complement our existing free coaching and counselling services and online practical support guides.

“This pilot means that education professionals will get swift and affordable access to treatment. We understand how the stresses of working in education and increasing workloads can build up. It is important that people dealing with common mental health problems like anxiety have someone to talk to and turn to for help.”

Nicky Lidbetter, chief executive of Anxiety UK, added: “We’re really pleased to be working in partnership with Teacher Support Network in order to provide much-needed support for those working in education who are experiencing stress and anxiety. We hope that this pilot will highlight the demand for accessible services of this nature and encourage people to access help without fear of stigma.”

Education staff can download an application form or apply online at www.teachersupport.info/get-support/one-to-one-therapy