Minds Still Matter
The Alliance has published a new report shining a light on the mental health and wellbeing of the early years workforce.
provides a comprehensive analysis of the results of an Alliance survey of early educators, conducted earlier this year, which found that:
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More than eight in ten (81%) were regularly stressed about a work-related issue during the month prior to the survey, with аÄÃÅÁùºÏ²Ê¹ÙÍø¿ª½± inspections, sector-specific government policy and pay listed as the most common causes.
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Over three-quarters (77%) support the removal of the single-word аÄÃÅÁùºÏ²Ê¹ÙÍø¿ª½± grading.
- In the past year, around two-thirds (67%) suffered with anxiety, fatigue (65%) and loss of motivation (64%).
- A third (35%) are considering leaving the sector due to stress and mental health difficulties.
The Alliance is calling for a review of the аÄÃÅÁùºÏ²Ê¹ÙÍø¿ª½± inspection process and administration demands on providers, alongside the consistent provision of clear, plain-English early years guidance for the sector, and resources to help support discussions around mental health and wellbeing – all underpinned by adequate funding and a comprehensive recruitment and retention strategy.
Resources for you
Blogs and articles
(Alliance blog)
— Rob McGeal, policy advisor at the Health and Safety Executive, explains how to mitigate the impact of workplace stress on staff (Under 5 magazine article)
(Alliance blog)
— YogaBugs share some ideas about why and how you can bring yoga practices into your setting (Under 5 magazine article)
Publications and mini guides
— (Under 5 magazine) —&²Ô²ú²õ±è;A quick guide to keeping records and all the paperwork needed to meet requirements
—&²Ô²ú²õ±è; (Publication)
— We have a wide range of publications and resources to support your work in our
— Developing a business plan and budget* — An effective business plan and budget will help you achieve your setting's aims and be financially ready for the future.
*This is only available to Alliance members and can be downloaded for free from the Business Management section in the Members' Area.
Further help
In the news