In today’s fast-paced and demanding work environment, supporting employees’ wellbeing and mental health has become a priority for organisations. Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) have emerged as a powerful tool to support employees and promote a healthy work-life balance. In this blog we explore what an Employee Assistance Programme is and why providing one to your employees can be beneficial for both your people and your business.
What is an Employee Assistance Programme?
An EAP is a service provided by employers designed to provide employees with confidential, professional assistance for personal and work-related challenges they may face. EAPs typically offer a range of services, including counselling, mental health support, financial advice, legal guidance and resources for personal wellbeing.
At Westfield Health we offer two EAPs, Healthy Extras and EASE. With our EAPs, employees can take advantage of professional help and confidential advice. From stress management, financial advice, family issues or grief counselling, our EAPs are designed to provide all the help your employees need. Some of the benefits include:
- 24-Hour Advice & Information Line: Confidential telephone guidance on medical, legal or domestic issues.
- Togetherall: A safe online space to get support in confidence.
- DoctorLine: 24/7 telephone or video access to a practising UK GP.
- Westfield Rewards: Discounts and special offers at hundreds of retailers, restaurants and destinations.
As well as optional extras:
- Expert Medical Opinion / Best Doctors: Get a second opinion from a medical expert
- Eldercare Advice: A Telephone Care Advisory Service providing advice on navigating the care system, finding care homes and more.
- Gym Discounts: Save on membership at selected gyms, leisure centres, bootcamps, studios and online workout subscriptions.
- Structured Counselling Sessions: Up to six sessions of structured counselling in a 12-month period, delivered via telephone, online or face-to-face.
What are the benefits of offering an EAP?
Enhanced employee wellbeing
By offering an EAP, employers demonstrate a commitment to their employees’ wellbeing. EAPs provide a safe and confidential space where employees can seek guidance and support for personal issues that may impact their mental health, such as stress, anxiety, depression, addiction or relationship problems. By addressing these concerns, EAPs can significantly contribute to improving overall employee wellbeing.
Increased productivity and engagement
When employees are struggling with personal challenges, it can often spill over into their work performance. With an EAP employers help employees address and resolve these issues, enabling them to regain focus and productivity. When employees feel supported and cared for, they are more likely to be engaged, motivated and committed to their work, resulting in improved overall organisational performance.
Reduced absenteeism and presenteeism
Unaddressed personal issues can lead to increased absenteeism, as employees may need time off to deal with their challenges. Additionally, even when present at work, employees may experience presenteeism, where they are physically present but mentally distracted or unproductive. EAPs can help address these issues by offering counselling services, stress management techniques and resources to promote work-life balance, reducing the negative impact of absenteeism and presenteeism.
Positive workplace culture
Providing an EAP sends a message to employees that their wellbeing matters to the organisation. Employees are more likely to feel valued and appreciated when their employer invests in their health and provides resources to help them navigate personal challenges. This creates a positive workplace environment, attracting and retaining talented individuals.
Cost-effective solution
EAPs can be a cost-effective solution for organisations. By proactively addressing employees’ personal challenges, employers can potentially prevent more significant issues from arising in the future. EAPs can help mitigate the impact of mental health concerns on employee performance, reducing the likelihood of costly turnover, recruitment and training expenses.
EAPs with Westfield Health
At Westfield Health we offer a range of different health and wellbeing solutions for your business, including EAPs, to help support you and your people.
If you have any questions or are looking for more information about our EAPs, please call us on 0345 602 1629 or email [email protected].