Hello, my name is Sandra Taylor and I’m the new Development Manager at Teacher Support Cymru. I joined the charity in January this year and though I’m now feeling settled in; when I started I was very nervous about the changes I was going to face.

I was in my previous job for seven years but was made redundant from my post in 2009. For the first time in my life I wasn’t working and I worried about what my future would hold. Would I get a new job? Would I get on with my new colleagues? Would I be able to cope? I had lots of questions at a time when I was feeling very vulnerable and anxious.

When I applied for this job I did what we all do and looked at the website for information about the charity and what they did. I came across the online InfoCentre and curiosity led me to searching through some of the factsheets freely available on there. I was amazed at the information available, from time management to relaxation techniques, managing change and even one on starting a new job. This was particularly helpful in reminding me that it’s OK to be nervous when you start somewhere new and don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions – which is exactly what I’ve been doing since I started!

If you’re nervous about a change that’s happening in your life, either at home or at work, I’m sure we’ll have a factsheet to help you. You can access all the information for free on our website at www.teachersupport.info/wales or for Welsh language, visit www.teachersupport.info/cymru

Don’t forget you can also call our trained advisors for free and in complete confidence. Call us on 08000 855 088. Lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

I’m really excited about the year ahead in my new role and I hope you can join me in spreading the word about Teacher Support Cymru to encourage even more people to use our services.