The bursary will provide funded counselling for those who cannot afford it, offered by professionally qualified therapists.

MRBA helps people working in the industry across roles, functions and seniority levels.  Applicants must live in the UK and have worked in UK market or social research for at least two years, either now or in the past, to qualify.

The MRBA announced the bursary at an event in Central London on 4^th June.

Virginia Monk, chair, MRBA, said: “This bursary has been created to help people in the UK research industry access the therapeutic mental health support they need but may not be able to afford.

“We know that market and social research can be a demanding profession, and too many colleagues face challenges alone. Mental health and wellbeing affects people at every level across our industry.

“Our bursary is designed to remove financial barriers for those who cannot afford professional help, making it easier for anyone in our community to speak to a qualified and accredited therapist and receive the support they deserve.”

Elaine Francis, MRBA trustee, said: “With the constantly changing landscape and cost-of-living crisis, we felt many in our industry could be finding life quite hard and struggling to cope. As always, we maintain the highest levels of confidentiality, and I would encourage anyone struggling with their mental health to apply.”

Applications can be made through the MRBA website.