Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Policy Example – Workplace Wellness and Health Programs Policies

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Policy Sample

In this article, we’ll look at the key elements that make up an example Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Policy. We’ve included some starter/boilerplate information to help you get started writing this policy for your company. If you’re looking for help in setting up your policies & procedures or employee manual/handbook, our team can assist.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Policy Template

The following are the main elements that should be included in your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Policy:

1. Title Page

• Policy Title: Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Policy
• Company Name: The name of the organization implementing the policy.
• Policy Number (if applicable): For easy reference within the company’s policy structure.
• Version Control: Date of creation, last review, and version number.
• Effective Date: The date the policy becomes operational.
• Approval Authority: Name and title of the individual who approved the policy.

2. Purpose/Objective

• A brief statement explaining why the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Policy exists. This section outlines the policy’s purpose in relation to the company’s goals, regulatory requirements, or ethical standards.
• Describe what problem or issue the policy addresses.
• Example Purpose/Objective:

The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Policy aims to support employees by offering confidential counseling and referral services for both personal and work-related challenges. It seeks to enhance workplace wellness and health by providing resources that help employees manage stress, improve mental health, and address issues that may affect their job performance. By facilitating access to professional assistance, the policy promotes a healthier work environment and encourages employees to seek help proactively, ultimately contributing to overall organizational well-being and productivity

3. Scope

• A description of who the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Policy applies to (e.g., employees, contractors, vendors).
• Specify any exceptions to the policy.
• Explain departments or roles affected, if necessary.
• Example Scope:

This policy applies to all employees seeking support for personal or work-related challenges. It offers access to confidential counseling and referral services, ensuring employees receive the necessary assistance to address various issues. The program is designed to enhance workplace wellness and overall health, promoting a supportive environment. Employees can utilize these services voluntarily, with assurance of privacy and without fear of reprisal. The policy underscores the organization’s commitment to employee well-being, aiming to improve productivity and job satisfaction through accessible mental health resources

4. Definitions

• Clarify any key terms or jargon used within the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Policy to ensure understanding.
• Avoid assumptions about familiarity with industry-specific terminology.
• Example Definitions:

The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Policy offers confidential counseling and referral services to address personal or work-related issues. It falls under the category of Workplace Wellness and Health Programs Policies. The aim is to support employees in managing stress, mental health, and other challenges that may impact their well-being and job performance

5. Policy Statement

• A detailed outline of the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Policy itself, including all rules, expectations, and standards.
• It should be direct and clear so that it leaves no ambiguity about the company’s position or requirements.

6. Procedures

• Step-by-step instructions on how to implement or comply with the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Policy.
• Include any forms, tools, or systems that employees must use.
• Describe the responsibilities of different roles in ensuring adherence to the policy.
• Example Procedures:

The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offers confidential counseling and referral services to address personal or work-related issues. Employees can access support for stress, family problems, substance abuse, and other challenges. The program ensures privacy and is available to all employees, promoting overall well-being and productivity. Participation is voluntary, and employees can contact the EAP directly to schedule sessions. The services are provided at no cost to the employee, and the program operates independently from the employer to maintain confidentiality. Regular communication about the EAP is encouraged to ensure awareness and accessibility

7. Roles and Responsibilities

• List the roles responsible for enforcing or overseeing the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Policy (e.g., managers, HR).
• Define who is accountable for reporting, monitoring, and updating the policy as needed.
• Example Roles and Responsibilities:

The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Policy assigns responsibilities to ensure effective support for employees facing personal or work-related challenges. Management must promote awareness and encourage utilization of EAP services. Human Resources is responsible for coordinating the program, maintaining confidentiality, and providing access to counseling and referral services. Employees are encouraged to seek assistance proactively and can access services voluntarily. EAP providers must deliver professional, confidential support and report usage trends without compromising individual privacy. Regular evaluations of the program’s effectiveness are required to ensure it meets employee needs and aligns with organizational goals

8. Compliance and Disciplinary Measures

• Outline how compliance will be monitored or enforced.
• Describe any consequences or disciplinary actions for failing to follow the policy, including the escalation process.

9. References and Related Documents

• Include links or references to any laws, regulations, or company guidelines that support the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Policy.
• Reference related company policies that connect or overlap with the document.

10. Review and Revision History

• State the review cycle (e.g., annually, biannually) and who is responsible for reviewing the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Policy.
• A history section that lists all revisions made to the document, including dates and reasons for changes.

11. Approval Signatures

• Signature lines for key decision-makers who have authorized the policy (CEO, department head, HR manager).

12. Appendices or Attachments (if needed)

• Additional information, FAQs, or case examples to provide more context or clarify how the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Policy applies in specific situations.
• Any relevant forms or templates employees need to complete.