New Employee Wellbeing Support program – Converge
Dear colleagues
The People and Culture Plan 2021-23 was recently endorsed by the Executive and will guide a University wide focus to build the collective capability of our workforce, develop inclusive leadership at all levels, create fulfilling employment experiences for all our staff and advance blended working methods and environments across all aspects of university life. The People and Culture Plan recognises and respects the diversity of our University community and the role we all play in binding and building the achievement, productivity, engagement and wellbeing of our staff.
As part of Deakin’s commitment to staff wellbeing, I am pleased to announce the University is introducing a new Employee Wellbeing Support (EWS) service provided through Converge, replacing the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provider, Benestar. Offering their support services to all Deakin staff from 1 April 2021, Converge take a holistic approach to wellbeing and provide confidential counselling and coaching to assist individuals in resolving issues that may be work related or of a personal nature. Find out more about the new EWS program and the transition from EAP below.
In recognising the importance of looking after your wellbeing and that of your staff, it is also timely to consider how you can foster a flexible work environment. Staff may request flexibility for a range of reasons, including managing family responsibilities and attending extra-curricular activities. You are encouraged to discuss and consider requests for flexible work arrangements that meet operational requirements, and support the productivity, engagement and wellbeing needs of our staff. In addition to working flexibly, it is important that staff continue to look after their wellbeing through the taking leave and planned breaks. Find out more about managing flexible work requests and how you can easily manage your staff leave balances and bookings below.
To support the health of our staff, this year we are once again offering a centralised Flu Vaccination Program. Following advice from the Chief Medical Officer, Deakin staff will be invited to access a complimentary flu vaccination through a Deakin Medical Centre or at a participating Priceline pharmacy. Find out more about the free flu vaccination below.
The wellbeing of our staff continues to be a priority for the University. In the coming months, we will launch a staff pulse survey to check-in on the wellbeing and engagement of our staff and provide you with insights into the experience of your team as they transition to new ways of working. As the University is closed from Friday 2 April to Tuesday 6 April for Easter, I hope you enjoy the break and time with your family and friends.
Regards
Gwen
New Employee Wellbeing Support program – Converge
The University is introducing a new Employee Wellbeing Support (EWS) service provided through Converge from 1 April 2021.