Our mental health has suffered in pandemic, say four in five teachers
NEARLY FOUR in five teachers feel their job has adversely affected their mental health during the pandemic, a survey has suggested.
More than one in four teachers whose jobs have had a negative impact on their mental or physical health over the past year have seen a doctor or medical professional about the issues, the poll found.
Ministers must recognise that teacher wellbeing needs to be addressed to be able to deliver the recovery programme for pupils affected by school closures, according to the NASUWT teaching union.
A survey of more than 4,700 NASUWT members found 79 per cent felt their job had adversely affected their mental health in the past 12 months.
Of these, 48 per cent said uncertainty about safety in their school during the pandemic was a key factor. Nearly one in four have taken medication to help them cope and 12 per cent have undergone counselling, according to the teaching union poll.
The findings were revealed as the NASUWT teaching union conference entered its second day.
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson and Shadow Education Secretary Kate Green will deliver speeches at the virtual conference today.
It is the first time in five years that an education secretary has addressed the NASUWT teaching union conference.
This afternoon delegates are due to debate a motion on the impact of Covid-19 on the metal health of teachers and their pupils.
Dr Patrick Roach, NASUWT general secretary, said: “These figures are truly shocking and starkly illustrate the significant impact of the pandemic on the mental health and wellbeing of teachers and school staff.”
A Department for Education spokesman said: “Our £8m Wellbeing for Education Return programme is supporting staff in schools and colleges to respond to any wellbeing issues they or their colleagues may be experiencing.”
He said £2bn was invested in catch-up plans and schemes to help pupils.