In a groundbreaking move to address the mental health crisis among teachers, the NASUWT annual conference has unanimously backed a plan to provide staff with mental health first aid training in all schools and colleges. The vote comes in response to a workforce survey revealing alarming statistics, with 23% of teachers reporting increased alcohol consumption, 12% using or increasing their use of antidepressants, and 3% admitting to self-harm due to job-related stress.
The emotional testimony from delegates, including stories of colleagues driven to suicide by the pressures of the job, underscored the urgent need for action. The conference heard about the tragic case of primary school headteacher Ruth Perry, who took her own life while awaiting the outcome of an Ofsted report, as well as reports of at least eight other teacher suicides linked to similar circumstances.
The motion for a suicide prevention strategy for teachers highlighted the rise in suicidal thoughts and attempts within the profession, with delegates sharing their own struggles with mental health issues. The conference emphasized the need for fully funded mandatory mental health training and called on the union to campaign for its implementation in all educational settings.
The Department for Education acknowledged the seriousness of the situation, stating that the wellbeing of teachers is a top priority. As the education sector grapples with the mental health crisis among its workforce, the push for mental health support and training for teachers marks a crucial step towards ensuring their safety and wellbeing.
