Mental Health Awareness Week 2025 (12–18 May 2025) gives us all a chance to stop and reflect on something that impacts every one of us: our wellbeing. This year’s theme, Community, feels particularly timely. Whether you’re studying, working, or simply trying to find your footing in day-to-day life, having a strong sense of belonging can be a lifeline.
At Accountancy Learning, the idea of mental health and community isn’t just a concept we explore once a year. It’s something we actively build into how we operate and support our learners every day. While we specialise in distance learning, that doesn’t mean our students are left to study in isolation.
Studying from Home, Together
When people picture studying remotely, they often imagine a solitary scene: one person, one desk, one screen. But learning doesn’t need to be a lonely experience. We believe that connection is just as essential as content.
Our team of tutors are more than just experts in accountancy — they’re friendly, encouraging humans who offer real support. They check in, give thoughtful feedback, and recognise the ups and downs of studying around work and family life. Our ALYS Learner App isn’t just about keeping track of progress; it’s designed to motivate and keep our learners connected. And with our live chat feature, anyone can quickly get support from a real person who understands what they’re going through.
We also keep our courses flexible because we know life doesn’t run to a neat timetable. Our goal isn’t just to get learners to the finish line — it’s to help them feel confident and supported along the way.
What Reliable Community Means to Us
In the spirit of Mental Health Awareness Week, we asked our team what ‘community’ means to them — and how they personally support their mental health. The replies were as honest and varied as the people who shared them.
One team member spoke about the importance of finding a true sense of belonging when moving to a new area. It wasn’t just about location, but the feel of the place — where local events, groups and a welcoming atmosphere created a sense of togetherness that made them feel at home.
For others, it’s physical activity that provides both community and mental wellbeing. From dancing at weekly Zumba classes to cold water swimming in local rivers and lakes, those moments of movement — especially when shared with others — offer a powerful boost to mood and resilience.
One colleague found that cold water swimming helped them regain strength and clarity during a tough recovery from knee surgery. The practice helped them to focus on their breathing, feel present in the moment, and enjoy the calm that followed. Swimming with friends added that all-important social element, reminding us that support doesn’t always have to come in words — sometimes it’s found in shared experiences.
Others talked about the challenge of staying connected while working remotely. One described how they missed the natural interactions of an in-person workplace, and how they actively rebuilt a sense of community through volunteering with a local basketball club. For them, community means taking action — giving back, organising events, and being present for others.
Another shared how, during maternity leave, attending local baby groups became a lifeline for connection. Although those group sessions eventually stopped, the friendships made during that time have endured. Now, regular playdates offer not just fun for the children, but a valuable support network for the parents, helping them feel understood and less alone.
We also heard from someone who, despite not having much time to volunteer nowadays, still makes time to support a local Scout group with admin and finances. It’s a reminder that being part of a community doesn’t have to mean grand gestures — it’s about pitching in where you can.
Creating Connection at Work
We recognise that not everyone has equal access to community — especially in remote working environments. That’s why we put genuine effort into building bonds within our own team.
Even though many of us work from different locations, we run both social and business-focused events to help us stay in touch. Whether it’s a casual catch-up, a team-building day, or simply sharing small wins over video calls, these moments matter. They turn colleagues into friends and help us all feel more grounded and supported.
Mental Health and Community
We don’t treat mental health as a side issue. It’s an integral part of learning, working, and living. Whether you’re preparing for AAT exams or supporting learners in doing the same, it’s okay to take a moment to check in with how you’re feeling.
We encourage our community to reach out, speak up, and access the support they need. And when someone needs more than we can offer, we always aim to guide them toward trusted resources.
Two platforms we regularly recommend are:
- Gallantium: A digital tool offering insights and support for emotional wellbeing
- Hub of Hope: A UK-wide database helping people find mental health services close to home
Sometimes, it’s not about solving everything overnight. It’s about being reminded that you’re not alone.
You Belong Here
If you’re part of the Accountancy Learning community — or thinking about joining it — we hope this week is a reminder that your wellbeing matters. You’re not expected to have everything together all the time. Life is complicated, study can be tough, and it’s okay to need support.
Community isn’t something you need to earn. It’s something you can lean on. And often, it’s built through small acts: a shared laugh in a virtual meeting, an encouraging message from a tutor, or the decision to try something new, with others by your side.
So here’s to connection, support, and looking out for each other — this week, and every week.
Call us: 01392 435349
Email us: [email protected]
