Swietelsky Rail employees check in for well-being

When it comes to looking after the well-being of its employees, NSW-based rail manufacturer Swietelsky Rail Australia (SRA) has no hesitation in using the CHECK5 performance program.

SRA and CHECK5 have partnered for more than 18months, providing proactive mechanisms for the health and welfare of staff, which in turn lifts operational performance.

SRA managing director Anne Modderno said CHECK5 was one of a kind.

“There will always be a need for traditional employee assistance program support, and this program takes a massive leap upstream from the traditional service,” she said.

“This is the only program I have seen that identifies factors that contribute to the overall well-being of our employees and provides genuine pathways to make positive change,”

The CHECK5 process supports employees by identifying a causal factor category, allowing individuals to “check in” across the main categories that can impact on well-being – money, relationships, physical health, mental health, and work.

“The check-in is a simple text message every three months where staff can select if they need support across any category, or simply note “no thanks”. If they tick yes for support, then private channels for support are provided.

“The program promotes individual action. It opens a pathway for individuals to be connected to an organisation that can support them take action to make positive changes on issues impacting them.

“This can include professional financial advice, nutritional advice, relationship counselling, and fitness programs.”

CHECK5 director Dean Noonan said that the theory behind the program was proven, effective and simple.

“Put simply, well-being and process deliver performance,” he said.

“A saying that sets the scene for me is “if you always do what you have always done, you will always get what you have always got”. The CHECK5 process awakens accountability within individuals to take action to make positive change.

“Staff may not tick “yes” for assistance the first time they get the check in SMS, or the second, or third, but they will when they are ready to take action. Our program has demonstrated this time and time again.”

Noonan said CHECK5 was proud to continue to partner with SRA to support employee well-being.

“The proactive leadership shown by SRA in this space, and their investment in their employees, is second to none,” he said.

Modderno said the program delivered many benefits for SRA employees and their families, as well as the organisation.

“Our workplace culture at SRA genuinely puts our people first. Without our people, we have no business,” she said.

“And as a business, we also have a legislated obligation to identify and manage hazards and risks to workers’ psychological health and safety.

“We have proactively worked with the CHECK5 team to review program to ensure it can be an effective tool for us to proactively manage psychosocial risks and create a mentally healthy workplace.”