UUP understands that it’s often difficult to balance the responsibilities of work, home and life; that there are times when members need assistance with personal concerns that may affect their work performances and overall health and well-being.
That’s why the union had little difficulty negotiating the New York State Employee Assistance Program (Article 47 in the 2007-2011 Agreement between UUP and the state). EAP is a confidential assessment and referral service available to state workers, their family members and retirees. The program also provides orientations and training for all employees, managers, supervisors and union representatives on the benefits and use of EAP.
UUP members appointed to serve on the Work-Life Services Advisory Board, which oversees EAP and other work-life services and programs, are Jamie Dangler of SUNY Cortland and Michael Smiles of SUNY Farmingdale.
“Juggling kids, aging parents and job-related stresses—especially in these tough economic times—can easily overwhelm a person,” said UUP?President Phillip Smith. “This joint program is out there so our members have a place to turn before a problem or situation gets out of control.”
EAP is funded through the Joint Labor-Management Committees.
Employees or family members experiencing problems—that can range from a need for information about child care services to serious difficulties with drug or alcohol abuse—are referred to a qualified community provider.
According to the EAP Web site—www.worklife.state.ny.us/EAP—the program is “most successful if employees seek assistance during the early stages of their problems. With early intervention and treatment, they can maintain productive employment and personal relationships can be salvaged. … Ultimately, EAP?is a productivity program as well as an employee benefit.”
Members must first contact their agency’s EAP coordinator. The EAP Web site includes a “Coordinators List” for easy reference. The coordinator will assist members in determining the nature of their problems or questions and link them with an appropriate referral.
Members may opt to use an EAP coordinator from an agency other than their own.
For more information about EAP, call (800) 822-0244.
— Karen L. Mattison