Abstract:
The main goal of this study was to explore the perceptions of managers
regarding their role in the successful implementation of the Employee
Assistance Programme (EAP) in the Department of Education (DoE) in the
Limpopo Province, South Africa. The researcher used a qualitative research
approach to explore the perceptions of managers regarding their role in the
successful implementation of the EAP in the DoE.
To do this, the researcher used a probability sampling technique with the
purposive sampling method to select the sample for this study. Semistructured
interviews were conducted with the use of an interview schedule
to gather data form 24 participants. With regard to data analysis, the
researcher employed Creswell’s (1998) analytical spiral to analyse the data
collected from the participants. The analysis involved both the transcription
and interpretation of the data.
The empirical findings revealed, on the one hand, that participants were
knowledgeable about the EAP and its usefulness in managing performance.
Although this is case, the findings of the study showed, on the other hand, that
these participants do not use the programme to manage poor performance
within the DoE. As a justification, the participants reported a lack of
understanding when it comes to referral processes and types of referrals to the
programme. Even important to note was that managers showed little trust (if not
completely none) to staff members who deal with the EAP when it comes to
upholding confidentiality and professionalism.
Thus, recommendations from the participants called for an active participation
and involvement in the EAP on the part of the managers to ensure a successful
implementation of the programme. Such recommendations included, amongst
others, the training of managers in the DoE.
