Resources

Navigating the Adelaide Fringe can be a thrilling adventure, but we also know it comes with its unique set of pressures. To help you thrive, the Fringe is partnering with ACCESS Programs to offer a confidential Employee Assistance Program (EAP) specifically for our amazing artists and volunteers. This guide will walk you through what the EAP is and how it can support your well-being throughout your Fringe journey.

Contents

What is the Employee Assistance Program (EAP)?

Your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a counselling service provided by your employer – in this case, the Adelaide Fringe – which is completely free, voluntary, and confidential for all registered artists and volunteers. ACCESS Programs is the external counselling service that has been selected to deliver this EAP, and they've been helping people effectively deal with challenges at home and at work since 1989.

ACCESS Programs can offer support when personal, family, or work issues are impacting your overall well-being or quality of life. Their qualified and experienced counsellors use short-term, solution-focused counselling techniques to help you resolve any issues you might be facing.

When to Reach Out to ACCESS Programs

How you're feeling is always a good indicator of when you might need a bit of extra support. If you find yourself experiencing any of the following, it might be a good time to consider reaching out to your EAP:

  • Being distracted by problems at work or home
  • Feeling tired or frequently unwell
  • Having days off
  • Feeling particularly emotional
  • Running late or missing deadlines
  • Being involved in conflicts
  • Feeling burdened by everyday concerns

Some common reasons people seek assistance through the EAP include:

  • Relationship and family challenges
  • Grief and loss
  • Conflict with fellow workers
  • Concerns related to gambling, alcohol, or drug use
  • Stress and emotional distress

Confidentiality and Privacy

Your privacy is paramount when using the EAP. No one, including the Adelaide Fringe, will know that you have sought counselling through ACCESS Programs, and utilising the EAP will not affect your position as an artist or volunteer.

ACCESS Programs counsellors are completely independent of the Fringe and are dedicated to maintaining your confidentiality. They will not disclose any information you've shared unless you specifically request and authorise it in writing. Like other professionals, counsellors are legally bound to disclose information in only a few exceptional cases, such as when there is a risk of harm to yourself or others.

You can access counselling sessions from a variety of convenient locations, with some out-of-hours options available, in addition to 24-hour telephone support.

Info Pack

For a more detailed overview of the Employee Assistance Program and how it can assist you, we've put together a comprehensive info pack. This brochure provides further insights into the services offered by ACCESS Programs and answers common questions you might have.

Download the EAP Brochure

Summary

  • The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is a free, voluntary, and confidential counselling service for all Adelaide Fringe artists and volunteers.
  • ACCESS Programs provides this service, offering short-term, solution-focused counselling for personal, family, or work-related issues.
  • It's there to support your well-being if you're experiencing stress, emotional distress, or other life challenges.
  • Your use of the EAP is completely confidential and will not impact your involvement with the Fringe.

Additional Resources

For confidential enquiries and to book an appointment with ACCESS Programs:

You can also visit the ACCESS Programs website for additional information, links, and tips covering a wide range of topics.