Contact Us

Use the form on the right to contact us.

You can edit the text in this area, and change where the contact form on the right submits to, by entering edit mode using the modes on the bottom right. 

Pod 6, The Engine Rooms, Station Road
Chepstow
Monmouthshire

01633 730907

For more than 10 years we have provided companies of all sizes and in a variety of sectors with uncomplicated, innovative and affordable human resources advice and on-site support ensuring that your people are an asset to your company and not a liability.

News

With the National Minimum Wage (NMW) now almost fifteen years old, and with another increase pending on 1st April 2017 HMRC have issued a list of the most elaborate excuses they've been given by employers for not paying the appropriate rates:

The Benefits of Having and Employee Assistance Programme

Alan Kitto

In today’s fast-paced and increasingly complex world of work, employees face a multitude of pressures—both personal and professional. From financial concerns and mental health challenges to family responsibilities and work-related stress, it’s no surprise that wellbeing has become a key focus for employers. One powerful way to support your workforce is through the introduction of an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).

What is an EAP?

An Employee Assistance Programme is a confidential support service provided by employers to help employees deal with a wide range of personal or work-related issues. It typically includes access to counselling, legal and financial advice, and other wellbeing resources, often available 24/7 via phone, online chat, or face-to-face sessions.

Why Introduce an EAP?

Here are some of the core benefits of offering an EAP:

1. Supports Employee Mental Health and Wellbeing

Mental health is one of the most common reasons for employee absence. EAPs provide professional counselling and support services that can help employees manage anxiety, depression, stress, bereavement, and more. By promoting mental resilience, EAPs contribute to a healthier, more engaged workforce.

2. Reduces Absenteeism and Presenteeism

When employees have access to timely and confidential support, they are less likely to take extended time off due to unresolved personal issues. Likewise, they’re more likely to be fully present and productive at work, reducing the costly impact of presenteeism.

3. Improves Employee Retention and Engagement

Providing an EAP demonstrates that you genuinely care about your employees' wellbeing. This can significantly boost morale, trust, and loyalty—key factors in attracting and retaining top talent in a competitive job market.

4. Encourages a Positive Workplace Culture

An EAP signals a supportive and proactive culture. When wellbeing is woven into the fabric of the organisation, it encourages open conversations, reduces stigma around mental health, and fosters a psychologically safe environment.

5. Offers Practical Everyday Support

EAPs are not just for mental health crises. Many schemes offer practical assistance, such as:

- Financial and debt advice

- Legal guidance (e.g. family law, tenancy, consumer rights)

- Support with childcare or eldercare

- Health information and lifestyle advice

These services help employees feel more in control and less distracted at work.

6. Cost-Effective for Employers

EAPs are typically low-cost per employee, especially when compared to the financial impact of absenteeism, poor productivity, or staff turnover. Investing in an EAP is a smart move for long-term organisational health and performance.

Final Thoughts

An Employee Assistance Programme isn’t just a benefit—it’s a vital pillar of a modern, caring workplace. Whether your team is large or small, office-based or remote, an EAP can offer the tools and support they need to thrive both personally and professionally.

Don’t hesitate to contact us if you’d like to look at the cost of implementing an EAP, generally it’s a lot less than employers thing it will be.