The Best Employee Assistance Programmes (In Our Opinion)
‘Everything said in these sessions Is confidential' - but is it really?
When UK employees confided in their Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) counsellors, they were promised complete confidentiality. Instead, last year's BBC investigations exposed a disturbing reality: some corporate clients were allowed to eavesdrop on confidential calls without employees' knowledge or consent.
With World Health Day approaching on April 7th, we ask: Is your Employee Assistance Programme delivering the comprehensive, trustworthy support your people deserve?
The Business Case for Mental Health Support
Work-related stress, depression and anxiety now account for over half of all workplace ill health in the UK, with 17.1 million working days lost annually. Only 14% of employees feel comfortable discussing mental health with their managers. Additionally, a Deloitte study found that 40% of employees report their job negatively affects their mental wellbeing.
The solution isn't just ethical - it's economical. Businesses investing in employee mental health see an average £5.30 return for every £1 spent.
What Makes a Truly Effective EAP?
We've built partnerships with EAP providers who set the gold standard. Here's what truly effective support looks like:
1. Ironclad Confidentiality
- Complete contractually binding privacy protocols
- Secure communication channels
- Clear data protection policies exceeding industry standards
- Transparent reporting that never compromises individual identities
2. Support Accessibility 24/7
- In-the-moment telephone support and online chat available day or night
- Mobile app access ensuring help is always within reach
- Peace of mind knowing support is available whenever crisis strikes
3. Professional Counselling Services (Subject to Coverage & Eligibility)
- Short-term, solution-focused counselling support from fully trained and accredited professionals
- Counsellors with specialised training across diverse mental health needs
- Practitioners skilled in short-term intervention
- Flexible delivery - confidential counselling via phone, video, or in-person, depending on coverage level and employee preference
- Vital alternative to lengthy NHS waiting lists
4. Comprehensive Wellbeing Support
- Support spanning mental, physical, and financial health
- Resources for diverse challenges from boundary disputes to relationship issues
- A truly holistic approach to employee wellbeing
5. Proactive Resources
- Self-help tools empowering employees before problems escalate
- Multi-format resources (podcasts, videos, articles) for different learning styles
- Preventative strategies for building long-term resilience
Talk to us
If you would like to find out more about our solutions, get in touch.
The Competitive Edge: Features That Set Elite EAPs Apart
While the essentials form the foundation of any reputable EAP, truly exceptional programmes go further. The following enhanced features don't just complement the core offerings - they transform your EAP from a safety net into a strategic wellbeing asset.
Lifestyle and Wellbeing: Curated resources for mindfulness, fitness, and work-life balance that complement mental health support and create truly comprehensive care.
Knowledge and Learning: Expert-led webinars, specialist Q&A sessions, and dedicated manager resources that build organisational resilience and deeper understanding.
Our EAP solution encompasses all of these enhanced features and more, providing a truly holistic approach to employee wellbeing that drives positive outcomes for both individuals and organisations.
Time to Act: Protect Your People, Protect Your Business
World Health Day on April 7th is your opportunity to reassess your wellbeing strategy: Does your current EAP truly meet your employees' needs?
Your employees need support they can trust when they're at their most vulnerable. With our vetted EAP partners, you can provide exactly that. Contact us today to build a wellbeing strategy that truly protects your people.
