Our latest industry expert is Fay Simpkins, Head of Occupational Health and Wellbeing at National Highways, a department that manages services for a workforce of approximately 6700-7000 employees. The workforce includes a diverse mix of office-based staff, engineers, and on-road personnel.
What to expect from the webinar: Faye discusses her role, the services provided by her team, and the challenges they face in supporting a diverse workforce. She emphasizes the importance of equitable access to health and well-being services, the need for proactive rather than reactive approaches, and the impact of COVID-19 on workplace practices. Faye also highlights the importance of open communication, mental health support, and the use of technology to enhance well-being services.
Occupational well-being is a critical aspect of maintaining a productive and healthy workforce. At National Highways, the focus on occupational health and well-being is comprehensive, covering a wide range of services and support systems to ensure employees thrive in their roles.
The head of occupational health and well-being at National Highways oversees a broad spectrum of services, including outsourced occupational health services, Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), and trauma services. The organisation supports a diverse workforce of approximately 7,000 employees, ranging from office-based staff to on-road personnel.
The organisation faces unique challenges in engaging its diverse workforce, especially those in operational roles who work shifts and may not have regular access to office-based resources. To address this, National Highways is exploring the use of kiosks in regional operational centers to allow employees to self-serve and take ownership of their health and well-being.
Effective communication is vital in ensuring that all employees are aware of the available well-being services. The organisation uses various methods to reach out to its workforce, including webinars, newsletters, and direct communication from line managers. The goal is to move from a reactive to a proactive approach in managing occupational health and well-being.
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the way occupational health and well-being services were delivered. The organisation quickly adapted by increasing the frequency of webinars and providing daily check-ins to support employees during the transition to remote work. This period also highlighted the importance of mental health support and the need for open conversations about well-being.
Measuring the effectiveness of well-being initiatives is challenging but essential. National Highways uses engagement surveys and other metrics to gauge the impact of their services. The organisation recently achieved excellence in the Workplace Well-being Charter, reflecting its commitment to continuous improvement.
National Highways is committed to enhancing its well-being services through a five-year plan that includes smaller projects and enhancements. The focus will be on using technology effectively, providing personalized support, and ensuring that all employees have access to the resources they need to maintain their health and well-being.
In conclusion, National Highways' approach to occupational health and well-being is comprehensive and adaptive, aiming to support a diverse workforce through various initiatives and support systems. The organisation's commitment to continuous improvement and effective communication ensures that employees can thrive in their roles, contributing to a healthier and more productive workforce.
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