Charlie’s story: that one conversation made a huge difference during my hour of need
Charlie* reached out to our free emotional support helpline when facing several personal challenges.
Your stories / 3 min read
My dad was a PE teacher, and so was my aunt. Growing up surrounded by their passion for sport and education, teaching always felt like a natural path for me. I’ve always loved sport, and combining that with the opportunity to make a difference in young people's lives made teaching the perfect fit.
What I love most about teaching is seeing the progress pupils make and the relationships we build along the way. There’s something really special about the bonds we form with pupils and the sense of community that grows within a school. It’s come full circle for me now, as I find myself teaching the children of former pupils, which is really rewarding.
However, the last number of years have been an extremely difficult time for me. I’ve experienced domestic abuse, bereavement and supported a close family member through a suicide attempt. During one particularly overwhelming period, my HR department shared the number for Education Support’s free emotional support helpline. I made the call and was able to speak to a qualified counsellor immediately.
That one conversation made a huge difference during my hour of need.
That one conversation made a huge difference during my hour of need. At a time when I was often waiting to hear back from other services, it was comforting to be able to access instant support myself. Even though it was just one call, in between my other sessions, the counsellor really listened, was very attentive and took on board what I shared with them.
Personal difficulties don’t stop at the school gates - they impact every part of who we are, including how we show up at work. If you work in education and are facing any challenges – at work or home - I encourage you not to hesitate in reaching out to Education Support’s free emotional support helpline.
Teachers and education staff who have been affected by any of the issues raised in this story can speak to Education Support, the UK’s only charity dedicated to supporting the mental health of everyone working in education: 08000 562 561. If you or someone you know are in immediate danger or you feel like you cannot keep yourself safe, please call 999 or attend A&E immediately.
*Name changed to protect identity
Education Support provides its helpline free-of-charge due to generous donations from supporters. Donate today to support the mental health of teachers and education staff.
