Sub sections:
Support from the University
Who Pays for the Service?
The University of New England funds up to six (6) counselling sessions per year per employee, at no cost to the staff member. After these six (6) counselling sessions, staff members can continue to attend sessions if needed by negotiating fees directly with Centacare.
Fees can be negotiated with consideration of the individual’s financial circumstances.
Do I Get Time Off to Attend?
Time off can be given for six (6) appointments per annum during work time by prior arrangement with your supervisor or manager. Advice that you need to attend an appointment with a health care provider will be considered provision of sufficient information.
If you prefer, you can attend all appointments during your own time. Further appointments after the six (6) University funded appointments will be managed flexibly in consultation with your supervisor or in accordance with the UNE policy on sick leave entitlement.
UNE Counselling Service
UNE counsellors will no longer provide counselling for UNE staff members in 2012. They will offer this service to UNE students only.
Confidentiality
Appointments are strictly confidential.
Counselling is provided by an experienced and impartial team of psychologists who are employed by the external agency, Centacare New England North West. UNE does not receive any information by which you can be identified either by name or context. No information about you will be revealed to your manager or anyone else.
If your counsellor believes it would be beneficial to speak to someone about your situation, they will ask for your written permission before they do so. Job security and promotional opportunities will not be jeopardised by seeking help through the Employee Assistance Program.
Cancellation of Appointments
Cancellation of appointments with less than 24 hours notice will be regarded as being one of the six (6) Employee Assistance Program sessions per calendar year that are funded by the University.
Contact for Further Information
The Manager
Employment Equity and Diversity
Phone: 02 6773 3242
Email: staff.equity@une.edu.au