Highland Council to consider Counselling Service

The introduction of a service to support the mental health and wellbeing of Highland Council staff and councillors is to be considered by the Council next week.

A report to Councillors will seek Members’ approval for the procurement of an Employee Assistance Programme for staff and Members which could offer telephone and internet-based counselling 24 hours a day.

The proposed service envisaged could provide personal support on a variety mental health and wellbeing issues and could help to reduce sickness absence; provide early intervention; and promote wellbeing.

The introduction of an Employee Assistance Programme through procurement is estimated by the Council to potentially lead to an annual reduction of £30,000 counselling costs to the Council.

Members will consider the report by the Council’s Occupational Health, Safety and Well Being Manager next Thursday 27 June 2019.