Disability

Supporting Every Teacher: UTU’s Commitment to Health, Wellbeing, and Inclusion

At the Ulster Teachers' Union (UTU), we believe that every teacher deserves a supportive, inclusive, and understanding working environment—regardless of their personal health journey. Whether it’s navigating a disability, managing the impact of menopause, coping with mental health challenges, or balancing work and life, UTU is here to stand beside every educator across Northern Ireland.

Championing Teachers with Disabilities

UTU actively promotes workplace equality by supporting teachers with disabilities. From advocating for reasonable adjustments in school to helping members access Disability Passports—a tool that records agreed-upon support needs—we work to ensure teachers are empowered to thrive professionally and personally.

Menopause and Wellbeing

Menopause is a natural part of life that can have a significant impact on a teacher’s wellbeing and performance. UTU is raising awareness and encouraging open conversations in schools. We work with members and employers to develop menopause-friendly policies, ensure appropriate support is in place, and promote a culture of understanding and compassion.

Mental Health and Stress Management

Teaching can be incredibly rewarding—but also incredibly stressful. UTU offers support for teachers facing stress, anxiety, and burnout. From confidential guidance and referrals to workplace advocacy, we help ensure schools are prioritising teacher mental health and wellbeing. We also campaign for systemic changes to reduce workloads and promote healthier school cultures.

Supporting Through Ill-Health and Retirement

When illness impacts a teacher’s ability to work, UTU provides expert advice and representation around ill-health retirement, phased returns, and flexible working. We support members at every step, making sure they understand their rights and have someone in their corner when navigating complex processes.

Promoting Work-Life Balance

We believe that teachers can give their best to students only when their own wellbeing is protected. UTU works to challenge excessive workloads, improve time management policies, and ensure schools are fostering a culture that respects work-life balance. We campaign for practical solutions—like protected planning time and fair timetabling—that support real change.

Reasonable Adjustments: Making Inclusion Real

Whether it’s adjusting teaching responsibilities, modifying classroom layouts, or enabling flexible hours, reasonable adjustments aren’t just legal requirements—they’re essential to inclusive schools. UTU supports teachers in requesting and implementing the adjustments they need to succeed, and we work with school leadership to ensure policies meet both legal standards and human needs.

No teacher should feel isolated, overlooked, or unsupported. At UTU, we are proud to be a voice for fairness, dignity, and compassion in education. If you’re facing a challenge, we’re here to help.

Contact Us
028 9066 2216
office@utu.edu
www.utu.edu

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  Ill-Health Retirement - Know Your Rights

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  Disability is Not an Inhability

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  Tips to Relieve Stress

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  Reasonable Adjustments

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  Empowering Teachers - Access to Work and Workable NI

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  Simple Habits That Will Make You Feel Happier

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  Supporting Teachers Undergoing Menopause

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  Five Ways to Look After Yourself

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  Understanding Disability Passports

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  Are You a Teacher and a Carer?

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  Equality in the Workplace

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  Work Life Balance

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  Mental Health Awareness

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  Supporting Teachers Wellbeing: A Guide to Occupational Health