With National Apprenticeship Week still fresh in the memory, EIC highlights some of the resources available to apprentices looking for support during the early stages of their careers.
Our apprentices are heavily impacted by the factors that are affecting our industry. On a lower wage and balancing college work with their training, apprentices are vulnerable to suffering with their mental health, whilst combatting the tribulations of the financial climate and the pressures faced in their early career. Together, we can work to create a safe space for those new to our industry and learning their trade.
Addiction
Substance abuse (drugs and alcohol) and gambling addictions are increasing among apprentices and this is a pressing concern. It’s important that we educate our industry on risks, where to find support and how to cope utilising positive coping strategies. Support may be offered to those who are experiencing addiction through the creation of a safe and non-judgemental environment that promotes the use of signposting to organisations that can provide specific and tailored support to the presenting issues. Organisations such as Al-Anon, AA, NA, GA, GamCare and GamAware can help.
Eating Disorders
An eating disorder is a medical diagnosis that is based on eating patterns and can include bulimia, anorexia, binge eating disorder, OSFED, ARFID, Pica, rumination disorder and diabulimia. Not every eating problem will be diagnosed as an eating disorder. Further information on the different types of eating disorders is available at www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/eating-problems/types-of-eating-disorders.
Self-Harm
Whilst apprentices are at high risk of self-harming, anyone can be affected and may self-harm. Self-harm is a way in which some people cope with very difficult feelings, painful memories or overwhelming situations. In some cases, self-harm has been described as a way to express something too challenging to put into words, to turn thoughts into something visible, to release the psychological pain and to feel in control. Reasons that someone may start self-harming include: pressures at work or school, bullying, money concerns, bereavement, relationship breakdowns, health problems, increase in stress and low self-esteem. Further information on how to help yourself if you are self-harming is available at: www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/self-harm/helping-yourself-now/.
Mental Health Awareness Training
The EIC is offering industry apprentices 15 mental health awareness training modules for free. The course has been designed to give:
- An understanding of what mental health is and how to challenge the stigma
- A basic knowledge of some common mental health issues
- An introduction to looking after your own mental health and maintaining wellbeing
- Confidence to support someone in distress or who may be experiencing a mental health issue
Apprentices who complete this course will be able to:
- Define mental health and understand its importance
- Recognise the signs of mental health challenges in themselves and their peers
- Access resources for seeking help and support if needed
- Contribute to a stigma-free environment that prioritises mental health in the workplace
- Understand the basics of self-care for maintaining mental wellbeing
If you are interested in accessing any of the training courses, you can sign up through the online platform – https://eictrainingco.org/login/index.php. For businesses looking to invest in training packages, contact the EIC directly training@eictradingco.org.
