VTA seeks operators to participate in six-month program aimed at providing support, counselling and awareness services to employees.
The Victorian Transport Association (VTA) wants operators to participate in a pilot program to address wellbeing in the workplace.
Together with Work Options, the VTA wants to provide an industry-wide employee assistance program that offers support, counselling and awareness services.
Work Options National Services Manager Doreen Linehan says the aim is to support managers and future leaders to be more efficient in their roles and to deliver avenues for support.
Industry research shows a lack of support and training for managers has led to high-risk burnout, depression and inability to cope with job demands, she adds.
“There is a high occurrence of company hopping, increased work load demands, lack of training in identifying symptoms of mental illness and ability to approach the employer due to fear of stigma,” Linehan says.
Last year’s survey conducted by the VTA has seen 79 per cent of the 84 respondents struggle with work-life balance , of which 78 per cent were dealing with emotional stress and tension at work.
Training is needed to understand signs and symptoms of those who may not be coping with mental illness, Linehan says.
“Strategies are needed to communicate about the above and provide support and avenues of assistance, preventative initiatives to minimise such issues occurring in the workplace and early intervention strategies,” she says.
“What respondents want to see in this program is mental health awareness programs for managers and supervisors and industry resilience training including mentoring and buddying programs.”
Those wanting to participate in the six-month program need to contact the VTA on 03 9646 8590.