More than half of teachers who have called a national helpline say it has helped them to cope with stress at work, while 45 per cent believe it has improved their performance at school. Patrick Nash, chief executive of TBF: the teacher support network, which runs Teacherline, claimed its advice and counselling services were having a positive effect on thousands of teachers’ lives. “Problems ignored are likely to affect teachers’ health and can lead to time off work, long-term sick leave and in some circumstances ill-health retirement. Teacherline is breaking this cycle,” he said. Contact Teacherline on 08000 562561.