Utilisation evaluation of the Employee Health and Wellness Programme for the National Office of the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform

Abstract

The goal of the study was to evaluate the utilisation of the Employee Health and Wellness Programme (EHWP) in the National Office of the Department of Rural Development and Land Reform (DRDLR) with the purpose of identifying the strengths and challenges of the EHWP and to make recommendations for improvement in line with the Department of Public Service and Administration (DPSA). The objectives of the study were achieved by: firstly, exploring the level of knowledge and awareness of employees about the EHWP of the DRDLR, and secondly, ascertaining the employees’ perceived value of the EHWP and lastly, determining the employees’ utilisation rate of the EHWP. The population from which a sample was drawn consisted of the 786 DRDLR employees who were working at the National Office in Pretoria. The population consisted of members of senior management (51), members of middle management (242), line managers (179), interns (96) and general employees (218). The data was collected by means of a questionnaire which was designed for the study and electronically analysed using figures, graphs and tables. The results showed that employees are aware and know about the EHWP. The utilisation rate, however, is considerably low, not tallying with the knowledge levels, especially for those of the senior management. Significant percentages of the respondents recommended the involvement of the EHWP when the DRDLR implements organisational changes. More visibility and marketing of the EHWP were also alluded to. Confidentiality and accessibility of the EHWP were rated satisfactory. A report with recommendations on strategies to improve the utilisation of the EHWP will be submitted to the DRDLR management for consideration and implementation.