Authorities say a new workplace coaching program has facilitated a strong recovery rate and improved worker wellbeing. 

Created by Beyond Blue, NewAccess workplaces is a low-intensity cognitive behavioural therapy coaching service aimed at assisting workers who need support and guidance with issues at work and home.

Commencing in 2020, an extended trial ran at 16 participating government agencies.

An independent evaluation by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) has found that NewAccess workplaces delivers a consistent recovery rate (72 per cent) and is an appropriate service for workplace settings.

NewAccess workplaces was also found to have met the needs of workers using the service and contributed towards improvements in their engagement in the workplace. Workers who made use of the service self-reported enhanced job satisfaction and productivity.

Additionally, the review says NewAccess workplaces is contributing to the promotion of mental health prevention and/or early intervention, and has a strong Return on Investment for employers, with an expected return of $1.60 in productivity benefits from every dollar invested.

“The evaluation highlights the effectiveness of NewAccess workplaces in supporting the needs of workers, particularly as an alternative and/or complementary option to other mental health and wellbeing offerings such as EAP services,” the national OHS and compensation authority Comcare says. 

The full review is accessible in PDF form, here.