Well at Work



As a member of the education community, you do so much for others. You’re a champion for students, an advocate for families and a leader in your school community. You're also human, and there are times in each of our lives when we need support, too.  

The Well at Work program provides free, confidential and voluntary access to specialized support for OECTA members experiencing physical, mental, emotional or cognitive challenges that may affect their well-being, work performance or ability to remain at work. 

Administered by Humanworks, the program connects you with experienced professionals who understand the unique needs of the education sector. Together, you’ll develop personalized strategies to help you:

  • Maintain your health and well-being at work 
  • Manage stress, burnout and other workplace challenges 
  • Navigate episodic absences and return-to-work planning 
  • Explore workplace accommodations and supportive resources 
  • Build resilience and stay engaged in both your professional and personal life

The earlier you access support, the more options you may have to identify strategies and resources that can help you stay healthy, productive and at work.

Take the first step today by completing the Well at Work Referral Form (see Quick Links). 

To learn more about the program, review the frequently asked questions below. If you have questions about the program or eligibility requirements, contact Humanworks at wade@humanworks.ca or 1-604-828-8121. 



 

Am I eligible to participate?

 

The Well at Work program is a free and voluntary service available to OECTA members experiencing  physical, mental, emotional or cognitive challenges  who may benefit from early access to specialized support.


To participate, you must be eligible for long term disability (LTD) coverage under OTIP’s OECTA LTD plan.


Please note: If you have been on sick leave for more than 11 consecutive days, you will be referred to OTIP’s Early Intervention or LTD program, where specialized support may be more appropriate for your situation.
 
Before applying, please review the following information to ensure Well at Work is the best fit for your needs: 


  • Your rehabilitation consultant can help you find services that may be covered through your Extended Health Care benefits. Well at Work does not pay for mental health treatment, rehabilitation or assessment services.

  • You cannot self-refer to Well at Work if you’re already participating in OTIP’s Early Intervention program or are currently on leave.

  • Well at Work cannot approve LTD-related leaves or workplace accommodations.

   


 

Who can benefit from the program?

 

The Well at Work program is designed to support educators who may be experiencing challenges with their well-being. The program may be right for you if you:

  • Feel overwhelmed, burned out or are struggling to balance work and life.
  • Notice that wellness challenges are affecting your work, attendance, communication or motivation.
  • Would like to talk with someone who understands the demands of teaching and who can help problem solve steps moving forward.
  • Want practical strategies for managing disability- or illness-related barriers.
  • Need help figuring out where to start or would value regular check-ins.
  • Are ready to make your well-being a priority.

 

How can I participate in the program?

 

Complete the Well at Work Referral Form (see Quick Links) and submit it directly to Humanworks using the instructions provided on the form.

 

Do I need approval from my employer or union to participate?

 

No. The Well at Work program is voluntary and confidential, and you can self-refer directly to the program by completing the referral form and submitting it to Humanworks.

If you prefer, your union representative can also refer you to the program with your consent.

 

What can I expect after I submit the referral form?

 

A Humanworks representative will contact you within two business days to schedule an initial intake conversation. During this confidential discussion, you'll have an opportunity to share your situation, discuss your needs and explore how the program can best support you.

 

How is the Well at Work program different from OTIP’s Early Intervention program?

 

The Well at Work program focuses on early support and prevention. It is designed for members who are currently working and experiencing physical, mental, emotional or cognitive challenges that may affect their well-being or ability to remain at work. The program helps members access support, explore workplace accommodations and develop strategies to stay healthy and productive.

OTIP’s Early Intervention program provides support to members who have been absent from work on sick leave for more than 11 consecutive days. This confidential, complimentary program helps members access the resources and support they need during their absence. It also aims to prevent or shorten the duration of an LTD claim without affecting future LTD submissions.

Learn more about OTIP’s Early Intervention program

 

Why are OTIP and OECTA offering the Well at Work program?

 

Together, OTIP and OECTA recognize that early access to support may help members manage health-related challenges and remain at work.

The Well at Work program provides free, confidential support to members experiencing health or wellness challenges that may place them at risk of an extended absence from work. By connecting members with specialized rehabilitation consultants and tailored resources, the program aims to help educators remain healthy, productive and engaged at work and in their personal lives.

Through this program, you’ll have access to:

  • A rehabilitation consultant with expertise in educator wellness
  • A personalized wellness plan tailored to your situation and goals
  • Resources and guidance related to workplace accommodations
  • Strategies and tools to help manage stress and prevent burnout
  • Support to navigate health and wellness challenges before they become more serious


 

How does Well at Work connect to group benefits?

 

Although Well at Work does not cover the costs of mental health care, rehabilitation or assessment services, your rehabilitation consultant can help you find services (such as mental health practitioners) that may be covered through your Extended Health Care benefits.

 

Are resources available in French?

 

The Well at Work program and Humanworks currently provide services and resources in English only.

 

What is Humanworks?

 

Humanworks is a team of experienced counsellors, rehabilitation consultants, therapists and other health professionals who specialize in supporting educators and education workers from Kindergarten to Grade 12.

Humanworks provides personalized support to help you maintain your well-being, stay engaged at work and connect with appropriate resources when needed.


Well at work


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