MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT FOR APPRENTICES

 

75% of mental diseases begin before a child turns 18 years old, according to study, which indicates that mental health disorders are common among young people in the UK.

It is not easy to balance work and study during an apprenticeship, and employers and training providers have an obligation to support students with mental health issues so they can fulfil their professional objectives and perform to the best of their abilities.

We look at how groups provide apprenticeship support for people attempting to manage a mental health illness whether you are in an apprenticeship programme now or are about to start one and require mental health support.

Find out how we assist with mental health.

Apprenticeship support: how employers can help
 

Employers should use the following guidelines to guarantee that their employees receive the appropriate amount of support during their job and educational endeavours:

A positive approach
 

Positive messaging about mental health issues being accepted should be ingrained in a business at all levels. This will demonstrate the organisation's mental health support while also helping individuals with these disorders feel accepted.

This kind of communication promotes openness and makes it possible for people who are struggling to be honest with apprentices about their well-being. Additionally, it is the duty of each and every employee to promote a positive outlook on mental health; it shouldn't be left to the hands of a single individual or organisation.

Providing access
 

 The right kind of individualised, tailored mental health support must be available to apprentices in order to guarantee equity and provide equal opportunities for all.

Organisations and training providers can support this in a number of ways, such as:

• Introducing mentorship programmes inside a company
• Making local community mental health teams accessible
• encouraging apprentices to contact their local support networks or the NHS for assistance
• directing people in an efficient manner to the right services

Flexible working
 

When possible, employers in Scotland should allow a flexible working strategy to help apprentices deal with mental health concerns. This could help someone have a more satisfying work experience by offering "flexi-time" or modified hours.

Challenging the stereotypes/stigma
 

In Scotland, employers and training providers must continuously challenge stigmas associated with mental health. This will lessen stigma and discrimination by fostering an environment of open communication and being approachable, which will foster a culture of support.

Staff education
 

It is essential to make sure that colleges, training programmes, and businesses all have a solid grasp of mental health in the workplace.

Institutions that provide this training protect apprentices and provide a deeper comprehension of the difficulties and barriers that young people encounter. Additionally, it fosters a culture of support and guarantees that apprentices receive the proper mental health support in Scotland when they need them.

Early intervention
 

In early intervention, staff members' roles are crucial. Early detection of red flags can prevent an individual from reaching a crisis point by providing team members with education on symptoms, indications, and accessible mental health support in Scotland.

Coping with apprenticeship stress
 

A career route that offers numerous rewards to anyone who enrol in it, apprenticeships are very fulfilling and enriching. You gain priceless on-the-job experience in addition to a plethora of advantages like making money while you learn, developing future-ready skills and expertise, and enhancing your employment prospects.

The mental health charity Mind has provided some helpful ideas and guidance for apprentices in Scotland who are suffering from mental health conditions and finding it difficult to manage the stress of their apprenticeship. See below:

• Understanding the symptoms of your stress and what's causing it is a good place to start.
• Decide what aspects of your job are useful and stressful, then talk to your boss about it.
• Try out some coping strategies, like mindfulness
• Maintain a healthy work-life balance.
• Speak up if you don't feel helped.
• cultivate positive working ties with your coworkers
• Never be reluctant to seek assistance.
• Maintain a healthy, balanced diet as a way to take care of yourself.
• Get moving and engage in lots of exercise.
• Don't suffer in silence; reach out to loved ones, coworkers, or a healthcare provider.

GP Strategies and apprenticeship support
 

GP Strategies acknowledges the critical role that mental health support plays in the Scottish apprenticeship system. Our effort to creating a friendly workplace is equal to our commitment to developing potential through contemporary apprenticeships. As befits Scotland's apprenticeship culture, our programmes include extensive mental health support systems. Our method integrates learning with mental health services because we recognise the difficulties that young people may encounter.

We consider an apprentice who feels encouraged in every facet of their development to be one who is succeeding. Through the incorporation of mental health assistance into our contemporary apprenticeship framework, we hope to enable people to achieve success in both their personal and professional endeavours. At GP Strategies, we believe that building a favourable and encouraging environment is essential to shaping a more promising future for Scottish apprentices.

Dave Martin, Vice President, comments:

“While a fulfilling job can be good for mental health and wellbeing, life for whatever reason, can get on top of us. Problems at work can bring on symptoms or make their effects worse, and our aim is to provide and maintain an environment where all learners are encouraged to talk, and are listened to. Regular one-to-one meetings with their dedicated skills coach gives apprentice the opportunity to discuss any difficulties or additional support needs required. We also have contacts at each of our regional centres who are trained to deal with health and wellbeing related issues.” 

Find out more about apprenticeship support today
 

GP Strategies recognises the vital role of mental health support within the framework of apprenticeships in Scotland. Our commitment to nurturing talent through modern apprenticeships is paralleled by our dedication to fostering a supportive environment. In line with the ethos of apprenticeships in Scotland, our programs incorporate comprehensive mental health support mechanisms.

Understanding the challenges young individuals might face, our approach intertwines the learning experience with resources focused on mental well-being. We believe that a thriving apprentice is one who feels supported in every aspect of their growth. By integrating mental health support into our modern apprenticeship structure, we aim to empower individuals to succeed not only professionally but also in their personal well-being journey. At GP Strategies, creating a conducive and supportive ecosystem is integral to sculpting a brighter future for apprentices in Scotland.

If you're interested in starting an apprenticeship programme or have any inquiries regarding mental health or workplace wellness, give us a call at 01786 478 478.