Trainee Wellbeing

At SWYM, we care about your wellbeing – spiritually, emotionally, and practically. You’re not doing this year alone. A network of people and spaces are in place to support you throughout your placement.

Our Support Network

Your Line Manager will meet with you each week to support you in your role. Together, you’ll look at your timetable, plan and review your work, and talk through any questions or challenges. They will help you grow in confidence and effectiveness in ministry.

Your Mentor is someone outside of your management structure who meets with you regularly for prayer, encouragement, and honest conversation. This should be an older Christian who you feel able to share openly with.

Your Area Coordinator is your main point of contact with SWYM. They will support you pastorally, offer guidance in ministry, and journey with you throughout the year. Each term, you will meet with your Area Coordinator and Line Manager to review your progress and set goals.

Your Course Tutor will support you throughout your training, helping you engage with your coursework and grow in confidence in your learning. They are available through the year, whether you’re finding the course challenging or simply need someone to talk things through with.

Your peer group is made up of the trainees journeying alongside you throughout the year. Through time spent together at cluster, conferences, and informally, your peer group will be a key source of encouragement, friendship, and support.

Your small group is led by a member of the SWYM team at each conference. This group provides a safe and consistent space where you can share honestly about how you’re doing, talk through challenges, and receive prayer and encouragement.

External Support

On top of all the support you receive from SWYM and your local placement, you may also wish to access external support to discuss any issues you are facing. SWYM has a network of counsellors and can signpost to external agencies at a local level. Your GP is always a good first point of contact, but the organisations below also offer a range of support services.

 

Mental Health & Emotional Wellbeing

  • Mind: Offers helplines, advice, and access to local support services.
  • SANE: Provides emotional support and information on mental health conditions.

Crisis & Immediate Support

  • Samaritans: 24/7 confidential listening service. Call 116 123.
  • Shout: Free 24/7 text support. Text 85258.
  • Papyrus: Supports under-35s struggling with suicidal thoughts.

Financial & Money Support

  • Citizens Advice: Free guidance on debt, budgeting, benefits, and housing.
  • MoneyHelper: Offers budgeting tools, student finance advice, and planning support.

General Youth & Life Support

  • The Mix: Covers mental health, relationships, money, and work, with helpline, webchat, and counselling.
  • YoungMinds: Provides advice, campaigns, and support for young people.

Online & Peer Support

  • Togetherall: Anonymous peer support community with trained moderators.
  • Hub of Hope: Helps users find local support services.

Safeguarding

Your placement and SWYM both have Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs) who are available to support you with any safeguarding concerns. This includes your local church or project team, as well as any relevant denominational safeguarding structures.

If you have a concern, you should usually speak to your placement safeguarding team in the first instance. You can also contact the SWYM DSLs directly – details can be found on our Safeguarding page.