Debated in Parliament on 4 Nov 2019.
Mr Melvin Yong Yik Chye asked the Minister for Health (a) how successful has HPB's Workplace Mental Health Solution initiative been since its launch in 2012; (b) what other funding support has been given to encourage companies to roll out mental wellness programmes at the workplace; and (c) how many working professionals have utilised HPB's Talk2Us helpline to seek help in managing workplace-related stress.
The Health Promotion Board's (HPB) Workplace Mental Health Solution initiative supports mental well-being programmes and resources at workplaces.
For example, a one-day on-site management training workshop helps equip managers and human resource personnel with knowledge to be supportive leaders at their workplaces. Two half-day workshops are also available to provide skills to those supporting others at work, and developing and implementing workplace mental health programmes. Close to 1,400 managers and HR personnel have benefited from these programmes since 2017.
HPB also partners landlords and developers to bring mental well-being talks and workshops on-site. Small and medium enterprises can choose from a list of co-funded mental well-being activities for implementation. There are also health coaching programmes which incorporate mental health tips for shift workers in sectors, such as retail, F&B and cleaning. In 2018, 9,500 workers benefited from these mental well-being activities.
In addition, HPB runs Talk2US. This is a free and confidential helpline to support working adults with workplace-related stress. Talk2US has helped over 460 employees in 2018.
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