Important day as staff check in
Staff across West Gippsland Healthcare Group recently received a surprise gift packet to lift their spirits and ask them the question, are you ok?
WGHG chief executive officer Dan Weeks said national R U OK? Day on September 10 was a prompt to remind everyone to keep checking in and supporting each other.
WGHG staff and volunteers assembled 1500 R U OK? gift packets to distribute to staff working in all areas across the health service.
“The packets carry simple messages of thanks, reminding staff of how much they are valued and the importance of taking time out to reflect and relax. Small treats were included to enjoy on a break,” said Mr Weeks.
He said this year was like no other and many people were feeling the fatigue of restrictions and lockdowns.
“Healthcare staff may feel especially drained with the pressure of responding to the prolonged pandemic,” he noted.
Mr Weeks said WGHG had taken an early role in looking at the health and wellbeing needs of staff.
The Work Health and Wellbeing department is providing a range of supports including running mental health first aid sessions and positive psychological health and wellbeing sessions online.
Staff and their immediate families can also utilise a confidential Employment Assistance Program which offers counselling support if they need it.
“R U OK? Day is another way we can let staff across our health service know what a terrific job they are doing and remind them that support and understanding is readily available,” said Mr Weeks.
Are you ok? was also the question virtually circling the Catholic Education Office in the Diocese of Sale recently as employees took time out from their busy schedules to check in with their colleagues as well.
Staff at the Catholic Education Office usually come together to celebrate R U OK? Day at Sion House in Warragul in recognition of the importance of mental health.
This year saw a series of conversation starters provided to help the 80 plus members of the team continue important discussions about their wellbeing while working from home.
Everyone was encouraged to start a conversation with a colleague from another department to expand their social circle and take the time to speak with people they may not regularly interact with.
Diocese of Sale director of Catholic Education Maria Kirkwood said wellbeing and pastoral care initiatives aimed to ensure staff and students across the Diocese feel part of a safe and inclusive environment.
“R U OK? Day is a timely reminder to reach out to our friends, family, neighbours, and colleagues, as our communities try to manage the additional challenges of a global pandemic,” she said.
Wellbeing is a central focus for Diocese with staff at the Catholic Education Office and Catholic schools offered a range of support options, including an Employee Assistance Program. Education office staff have also received vouchers allowing them to take two paid wellbeing days in 2020, in addition to their sick and annual leave benefits.