We’ve talked a lot in previous blog posts about how employers have a vital role to play in supporting their employees’ mental health and wellbeing. Whether it’s ensuring good mental health at work, supporting requests for flexible working or granting compassionate leave, employers make a significant contribution to good mental health of their staff.
Another way an employer can help their employees is to put an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) in place, to provide confidential, professional help for employees facing a range of issues.
What is an Employee Assistance Programme?
An EAP is a workplace benefit designed to offer employees access to professional support and guidance on various personal and work-related issues. These programmes typically include services such as counselling, legal and financial advice, health assessments, and even managerial support for employers. The goal is to enhance employee well-being, improve productivity, and reduce absenteeism.
In general, offering an EAP is a non-taxable benefit provided it is offered to all employees although there are some exceptions so getting some advice might be worthwhile.
What can it offer?
EAPs can support both the employees and employers in several ways. For employees, it can offer:
Mental Health and Well-being Support
Mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and work-related stress are on the rise. EAPs provide employees with access to confidential counselling and psychological support, helping them manage their mental well-being effectively.
Legal and Financial Advice
Many EAPs provide employees with access to legal experts and financial advisors, helping them address issues such as debt management, legal disputes, or family matters.
An EAP can also support employers by:
Improved Workplace Productivity
Employees who struggle with personal or work-related problems may experience reduced productivity. By offering professional assistance, EAPs help employees deal with their issues, enabling them to focus better at work.
Reduced Absenteeism
Unresolved personal and health issues often lead to increased sick leave or absence. EAPs can reduce this by offering timely support and interventions.
Support for Managers
Managing a team can be challenging, especially when dealing with employees facing personal difficulties. EAPs offer managers guidance on handling sensitive situations effectively and legally.
How Do EAPs Work?
EAPs are generally offered through an external provider, ensuring confidentiality for employees who use the service. Employees can access support via a helpline, face-to-face counselling, online resources, or even mobile apps. These services are free to employees, as they are covered by the employer.
Most EAPs operate 24/7, allowing employees to seek help whenever they need it. Employers receive anonymised reports on usage trends, helping them understand workforce challenges without compromising confidentiality.
Employee Assistance Programmes can play an important role in supporting an employer’s workforce. As mental health awareness grows, investing in an EAP is a proactive step that benefits both employees and employers. It can also help recruitment by making the workplace as desirable place to work as it could make for a healthier, more productive work environment where employees feel valued and supported.