This question is specifically aimed at trainees (or, if you're qualified, if you could kindly think back to when you were still within your training contract).

I can't give you all an extra week of paid study leave. I can't rewrite the exam policy that makes you live in fear of what happens if you don't pass that exam.

But you know what, the last year has really tough for a lot of people, and it's been exceptionally tough for those of you trying to work full-time and cover for people who have been furloughed or made redundant, whilst still also trying to study full-time. As a manager, I think the concept of 'well, we had it tough ourselves back in the way' is garbage, and none of us can compare what we went through to how you've coped over the last 12 months anyway.

Accountants are supposed to be innovators, and you know what, from talking to tired, burnt out trainees, I think the system is broken and it needs to change.

Hit me with your feedback. Be as brutal as you like. I'd love to hear it, honestly - there might be something there I can work with at my own firm to help make the training contract experience that little bit more bearable for someone in a similar position to you. I really want to make this all a bit less shit and don't know where to start.

Thanks for reading.