Question to the Attorney General:

To ask the Attorney General, what measures the Law Officers' Department has in place to support those of its staff who have mental health problems.

Civil Service Employee Policy provides a central health and well-being service to support departments in their well-being work.

In 2015, the People Board agreed a strategic approach to health and well-being for the Civil Service. This identified mental health as a key priority. This strategic approach was developed into a Strategic Action Plan, which has now been successfully implemented.

The Law Officers’ Departments provide all staff with access to an Employee Assistance Programme. The service is confidential and includes a 24hours a day, 365 days a year free helpline. Staff can speak to an advisor who will listen and help to explore ways forward on a range of issues including mental health– this can include information, advice, signposting to other local or national services, referral for telephone or face-to-face counselling, or a combination of these. All departments have developed arrangements and policies that support wellbeing, including flexible working and special leave arrangements.