Plugging the gap : the GTC’s new partnership with Teacher Support Network

last updated:09 Sep 2009

The GTC has been working to improve teachers’ access to the services provided by the Teacher Support Network (TSN).

The GTC’s teacher enquiry service sometimes finds itself dealing with requests for help that relate to personal issues, or practical problems that lie outside the scope of the GTC’s work. Some questions can be dealt with by teaching unions, but the TSN is often the organisation best placed to deal with non-GTC queries, and the two bodies have recently completed a six month pilot project to improve the way they work together.

GTC staff working on the project aimed to:

• remind the caller of their union support, and provide details
• raise awareness of the TSN and send out information packs, as required
• act as a bridge to an incoming distressed caller by offering an immediate transfer to a TSN adviser
• help the TSN to provide an immediate free and confidential service to the teachers who were transferred to them.

Improved technology allowed callers to be transferred seamlessly and the call to be switched to a free phone number should the help be needed immediately.

Through these measures the GTC has been able to plug a gap between the service provided by its enquiry service and the needs of some of its callers. 

The pilot was judged a success, with some teachers taking advantage of the transfer facility and others asking for information leaflets and contact numbers at TSN so they could call at a more convenient time. The GTC will therefore continue to provide this service for all callers who need it.

‘Our link with TSN has impacted upon very few teachers,’ says Terri Tibbetts, operations manager for the enquiry service ‘However it will have made a significant difference to those who did – how they think and feel. This is of huge importance to them and their families and colleagues.’

The work of TSN
TSN is the independent charity that provides emotional and practical support to training, serving and retired teachers. Through coaching, counselling, information, money advice and financial support, the charity helps tens of thousands of teachers tackle personal and work-related issues
each year.

Its services are available 24/7, and include:

• a free, confidential Support Line staffed by trained coaches and counsellors
  online support from a trained coach
• website with up-to-date news, public policy information, new factsheet content and information on our surveys and campaigns
• web-based InfoCentre with factsheets and practical guides on both personal and work-related issues
• regular e-newsletter dedicated to teacher health and wellbeing and updates on the latest developments in press and policy that affect the teaching profession
  online stress test designed to give you an indication of the kinds of stress and wellbeing issues that may affect you; and
• money management, budgeting advice and financial assistance.

To access these free services, you can visit the main TSN website or the Starting Out Guide website for new teachers;  or call the TSN Support Line.

tel: 08000 562 561.