Supporting colleagues affected by the COVID-19 crisis in Asia

Find out what support services are available…

Many of you will be aware of the devastating second wave of COVID-19 that has hit a wide area, including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and several surrounding countries.

With many hospitals and communities overwhelmed, colleagues with family and loved ones abroad may understandably be very concerned about the evolving situation. If you are not personally affected, please support those around you who might be. Take the time to check in with any colleagues who have strong links or family connections in an impacted region.

We have outlined sources of support available below, which you may find useful:

Compassionate leave

If you, or a member of your team has experienced a sad loss in their family recently, please speak with your line manager to discuss the support available to you, including potential compassionate/bereavement leave. Find further guidance in the Special Leave Policy.

Mental Health First Aiders (MHFAs)

Our MHFAs team is made up of six CCG colleagues. Our first aiders are on hand to provide support to you if you need a friendly ear.

They will listen, non-judgementally and guide you to any appropriate care if you, or someone you’re concerned about, are experiencing a mental health issue or emotional distress. They are not counsellors or there to diagnose but can give you initial support and signpost you to appropriate help if required.

Here for you

‘Here for you’ is a 24/7 support line run by Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (HPFT) and Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT).

The service was set up in response to the pandemic to support all staff in the ICS, clinical and non-clinical, by signposting to the right help at the right time, with an opportunity to confidentially talk through any problems you’re facing.

The support line (0344 257 3960) replaced the Herts Support line put in place last year, but if for any reason you use the old number it will route straight through to this new service. You can also email Here for you.

Employee Assistance Service

The Employee Assistance Service offers you around the clock access to confidential, independent, professional information and emotional support, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

You can access the Employee Assistance Programme, at any time, by calling 0800 1116 387 or visiting the My EAP website.

Further advice and guidance

Find details of more support services available on our Health and wellbeing support page on AskHUE.