Name
Amelia Pyke
Job title
Manager Health and Wellbeing
Organisation
What are you/your organisation currently focusing on in terms of workplace health and wellbeing?
In the mental health space we are using the Black Dog Institute to train our managers in better understanding the mental health of their staff and practical examples how to support their staff. Training to all staff consists of a mandated 60 minute online training course which covers mental health awareness, workplace stigma and everyone’s role in assisting their colleagues. We are also in the process of trialling mental health first aid and better communicating our EAP as a coaching service in addition to the traditional counselling model.
For the last three years we have also had in place an online platform that is web and app based, Springday, which syncs to wearable technology allowing ongoing personal monitoring of health as well as team based activity challenges. We have found our hub instrumental in being a communication gateway tool for staff to view our programs, discounts, corporate rates, seminars and book online.
What aspect of workplace health and wellbeing does your organisation do well in?
We try our best to keep with evidence based research and mould programs to suit the many various roles and demographics within our organisation. We know that a one size fits all approach doesn’t work.
What’s your biggest challenge working in workplace health and wellbeing?
We always seem to forget to measure our successes! Having time to evaluate our programs is a challenge. Our other biggest challenges is regularly communicating to our geographically spread organisation with clear and consistent messages.
How does WayAhead Workplaces add value to your organisation’s health and wellbeing program?
We have been members with WayAhead for over four years now. It has been a fantastic way to network with other like-minded organisations and meet industry professionals and providers that can support our strategy.
How do you deal with stress?
Whether at home or at work I think being able to talk out an issue or concern helps. Trying to keep a sense of humour while putting things into perspective.
What are the key issues and considerations for people in workplace health and wellbeing roles?
It’s always about the business case! Don’t forget to add a measuring tool at the beginning of the planning phase and always aim for chief executive support and engagement and involvement in your communications.
How do you switch off from work?
Having a balance and knowing your limits, keeping communication open and making sure flexibility is a large part of work and home life.
What is your best time-saving tip?
Fold the washing whilst watching TV!
What do you think the future of work health and wellness programs look like?
It needs to be flexible and move in the areas of what people are interested in. Workplace wellbeing is not just physical and mental health anymore. It’s about its having a workplace that provides benefits, flexibility, is family friendly and supportive.
