Hello everyone!

Welcome to our latest wellbeing check-in blog here at SDC-LEARN where we encourage you to take a moment to check in with your mental wellbeing and have a read through!

As we step into 2026, there’s a real sense of positive possibility in the air. Whether you’re starting a new placement, progressing in your role, or continuing to build your skills, this year has plenty of room for growth and our assessors are here to support you every step of the way. Throughout 2026, each blog will highlight a topic or offering some learning about maintaining a good wellbeing. They will also highlight different organisations throughout Scotland that offer some additional support for those moments when you might need a little extra help. You may have seen this one, but today, we’re taking a look at SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health) — a charity that plays a vital role in supporting people across Scotland.

SAMH delivers over 70 services across Scotland, providing mental health social care, addiction support, and employment‑related help. This can be especially useful for work‑based learners who are balancing study and workplace pressures. Whether you need support for yourself, want advice to help a friend or colleague, or simply need a safe, understanding place to talk things through, SAMH is there to listen. They also offer a practical self‑help and wellbeing assessment tool, which can be a useful way to check in with your mental health as you progress through your learning and work responsibilities

Their information service is available Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm (excluding bank holidays). You can find more details at samh.org.uk/information service or get in touch by phone at 0344 800 0550 or email info@samh.org.uk.

How are you feeling as we move into the new year? I hope things are going well for you, though I also understand that isn’t always the reality. Juggling work, learning, and personal responsibilities can be tough, and it’s perfectly natural to feel stretched or overwhelmed at times. What’s important to remember is that you’re not expected to handle everything by yourself.  Remember that our SDConnect platform is available to anyone facing challenges or barriers in their learning. If things feel difficult, please reach out — our team at SDC‑LEARN is here to support every candidate as much as we can. You can get in touch through the platform whenever you need support.

As you move through 2026, try to make space for your wellbeing alongside your learning and work. Reaching out for support isn’t a sign of weakness — it’s a sign of awareness and strength. This year doesn’t demand perfection; it simply offers the chance to grow, reflect, and take care of yourself.

As always, if you would like more information or to arrange a free and confidential catch up in relation to your wellbeing, then please contact myself at wellbeing@sdc-learn.com

Take care!

Connor

Mental Health and Wellbeing Coordinator