Episode 43: When Did Unpaid Work Become Normal?

When did unpaid work become so normal in the helping professions?

Working through lunch.

Replying to emails on your day off.

Taking documentation home.

Making phone calls outside paid hours.

Using annual leave to catch up on work.

Many helping professionals do these things without even questioning them anymore. But should they?

In this episode of Not Another PD, I explore why unpaid work has become so normalised across the helping professions and why I don't believe it's simply an individual boundary issue.

We unpack together in our chat:

• What unpaid work actually looks like (including some of the more subtle examples)
• Why so many helping professionals give away their time and expertise for free
• How excessive workloads contribute to unpaid work
• How unpaid work should be seen as a psychosocial hazard
• The role leaders play in creating more sustainable workplaces (and caseloads!)
• Practical strategies for both helping professionals and leaders.

This isn't an episode about blaming practitioners for having poor boundaries.

It's about challenging the workplace cultures and systems that have made unpaid work feel like "just part of the job."

Because helping professionals are incredibly generous with their time and expertise.

But your time and your expertise are not endless resources for other people to take from you.

Reflective Questions

I finish this episode with two questions I'd encourage you to reflect on:

• When did unpaid work become so normal and so acceptable? And actually, is it? 
• What can I do to help shift things, for myself, my team, my organisation and even my clients?

I'd love to know what came up for you after listening, so please do let me know!

Work directly with Jazmin:

If this episode resonated with you and you'd like support creating more sustainable ways of working, here are some of the ways we can work together.

Professional Supervision

Reflective supervision for social workers, counsellors and other helping professionals looking to strengthen their practice, navigate ethical dilemmas, build confidence and reduce the risk of burnout. Contact us directly here.

Leadership Supervision & Consultation:

For current and emerging leaders wanting support with difficult conversations, psychosocial hazards, staff wellbeing, sustainable leadership and creating psychologically safe workplaces. Applications Open can be submitted for our upcoming Leadership Circle Group Supervision Program here.

Professional Boundaries Training (Online self-paced course for AUD$59)

If today's episode resonated with you, my Boundaries as Practitioners training explores practical, evidence-informed strategies for maintaining healthy boundaries without compromising compassionate, ethical practice.

Available for both individuals and organisations.

Training & Workshops

Evidence-informed training tailored to organisations across the helping professions and for leaders. 

Socialise with Jazmin:

Website

LinkedIn

Instagram

If you enjoyed this episode, I'd really appreciate it if you shared it with a colleague, your team or another helping professional who might benefit from the conversation. It helps more people discover the podcast and continue these important discussions around sustainable practice and leadership.

See you next time.

Jazmin