Employee perceptions of the value proposition of Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPS) in addressing absenteeism at GUD Holdings (Pty) Ltd

Abstract

The aim of this study is to analyse the perceptions of employees of the value proposition of EAPs in addressing Absenteeism at GUD Holdings (Pty) Ltd. GUD Holdings (Pty) Ltd does not have a formal Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) in place to provide support to employees who may have personal problems. Hence, an EAP might be beneficial to GUD Holdings (Pty) Ltd in reducing absenteeism and improving performance. This has resulted in motivation for the study. Furthermore, one of the objectives of this study was to explore the perceived causes of absenteeism at GUD Holdings. The research design adopted a quantitative approach using a questionnaire. Of the 260 questionnaires issued, 251 were returned, 1 of which was not completed, which made the response rate 96.5%. Data was analysed using the computerised Statistical Programme for the Social Sciences (SPSS version 27 for Windows). This study concluded with the findings that emerged from the research. The findings revealed that there is a great need for an EAP at GUD Holdings. However, employees’ knowledge and awareness of the EAP indicated that they understood the value of the Employee Assistance Programmes. This study revealed that employees at GUD Holdings are struggling with several personal problems, which are causing absenteeism. EAPs have demonstrated the capability to improve various outcome measures. Based on the findings, the implementation of EAP resources was recommended for GUD Holdings. Another recommendation to the management of GUD Holdings highlights the speedy implementation of an EAP based on high absenteeism levels and the findings which revealed that respondents showed interest in the Programme.