Healthy work

The University is committed to promoting compassionate leadership throughout our institution and effective management for all of our staff. We will continue to equip and empower our people with the knowledge, skills and confidence to recognise and appropriately support students, colleagues and peers who are struggling with their mental and physical health.

All GCU staff can access support from the following:

  • Employee Assistance Programme provided by PAM Assist. The PAM Assist website contains information and resources for all matters related to health and wellbeing, such as stress and anxiety, depression, bereavement, money or legal worries, and physical health. The website includes online cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) courses and worksheets on topics as diverse as low mood, lack of confidence, anger management, and relationship crisis.

GCU staff can also access live chat, a 24-hour confidential helpline, and telephone or face-to-face counselling or CBT.

  • People Services offers advice for managers on supporting employees throughout periods of ill health. It offers advice for all stages of the process: keeping in contact with team members, having discussions about their needs, and referring them to specialist support. Our specialist services in Health and Safety and Occupational Health support the health and wellbeing of our staff at work.
  • Togetherall, is a 24/7 online global community where individuals can access support from trained professionals. You can use Togetherall as a safe space online to get things off your chest, explore your feelings, get creative and learn how to self-manage your mental health and wellbeing. You are anonymous to other members of the community, and your personal information is kept secure while you are on the site (see Togetherall’s privacy statement).
  • We work in partnership with Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH) to provide regular training for managers and staff in mental health awareness. This includes an overview of mental health and wellbeing, ways to support students and colleagues, how to create a mentally healthy workplace, and the use of tools like Wellness Action Plans to look after ourselves and each other.