A critical evaluation of an employee health and wellness programme of the Department of Education : a case study of the Motheo District in the Free State Province

Abstract

The primary aim of the Employee Health and Wellness Programme (EHWP) is to make a positive contribution towards maximum employee productivity and effectiveness in the workplace. Various organisations have implemented the EHWP, but the achievement of its aims and objectives need to be investigated in order to ascertain whether the service is successful. In order to achieve this, the article aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the EHWP services in the Free State Department of Education, Motheo District. In order for the DoE to comply with legislation they need to ensure that there is adequate provision of human and capital resources. Employees should be knowledgeable on the content of policy guidelines and procedures to promote utilisation. Accessibility of the programme will depend on the restructuring of the EHWP section from being a subsection to a Directorate. An appropriate structure can make the EHWP section more effective. Staffing, competency, integration and early identifi cation can be dealt with if the DoE can employ personnel with appropriate skills. Confidentiality and the model through which EHWP services are rendered are challenges in the DoE as this influences the utilisation of EHWP services.