EXCLUSIVE: Royal Mail has introduced a new pilot scheme to support the wellbeing of employees who are separating from their spouses.
The pilot initiative, known as Dialogue First, aims to help employees reach an early-stage agreement with the partner with whom they are separating, while also supporting the mental and emotional wellbeing of those feeling upset or distressed by the situation.
Through employee assistance programmes (EAP), staff members going through a separation can gain access to a family law service. This includes a free 30-minute legal consultation with participating lawyers, with the initial aim of pursuing mediation where appropriate.
The scheme, which is supported by EAP providers CiC, Help Employee Assistance, People at Work, Workplace Wellness and Validium, is initially being piloted for employees in London, Manchester, Merseyside and the North East. The pilot will run for a period of 18 months.
Shaun Davis (pictured), group director of safety, health, wellbeing and sustainability at Royal Mail, said: “As one of the first employers to adopt the scheme we recognise that workplace wellbeing is as much about what happens to our employees outside of work.
“Family breakdown can be a tumultuous time for all concerned, so we support innovative and affordable ways of helping our employees and their families reach agreement.”