Gi Group launches EAP for temporary workers

Gi Group has launched a new Employee Assistance Programme for its temporary workers.

The move gives temporary workers access to practical wellbeing support alongside Gi Group’s permanent colleagues. It also reflects the business’s commitment to supporting every worker, not just those in permanent roles.

The new hybrid Employee Assistance Programme, known as an EAP, focuses on mental health, financial wellbeing and clear signposting to trusted support.

Supporting temporary workers through changing times

The launch comes as many workers continue to face pressure from the cost-of-living crisis.

Recent wellbeing research also shows a clear gap between demand and access to support. PAM Group’s 2025 Health at Work Report found that 57% of employees want mental health counselling. However, only 22% have access to it.

As a result, Gi Group believes employers need to think more creatively about wellbeing support, especially for temporary workers.

Cindy Gunn, People Director at Gi Group, said:

“We support around 8,000 temporary workers in the UK at Gi Group.

“With the ongoing mental health and cost-of-living pressures facing many people, we felt it was vital to develop and introduce a hybrid Employee Assistance Programme.

“This means we can support temporary workers in the same way permanent workers are supported internally in our business.

“It also gives our clients a model they can call on.”

Why EAP support matters for temporary workers

Temporary workers do not always have access to the same wellbeing support as permanent employees.

In many businesses, this can happen because temporary workforces are more transient. Usage may also be lower than it is among permanent staff.

However, Gi Group believes this should not stop employers from offering meaningful support.

Cindy said:

“We know it is not always realistic for businesses that rely on temporary workers to offer EAPs.

“It can be a very transient workforce, and usage is not always as high as it is with a permanent workforce.

“Yet there is evidence of need for EAPs for temporary workers.

“At Gi Group, we feel it is important that we look after every single worker in the business, not just permanent employees.”

A practical and flexible wellbeing model

Gi Group’s temporary worker EAP uses a hybrid model.

It includes specially designed booklets with financial and mental health advice. These resources also signpost workers to government-approved networks, helplines and expert guidance.

In addition, Gi Group has introduced a shopping discount platform for temporary workers. This aims to help workers manage the continued rise in the cost of living.

The model gives workers simple, accessible support that they can use when they need it.

Cindy added:

“It does not have to be a costly exercise for more businesses to bridge this gap within the temporary workforce.

“Employers need to make sure people are supported and get creative.

“There is lots that can be done if businesses think outside the box.”

Building confidence to seek support

Wellbeing support only works if people know it exists and feel comfortable using it.

For some workers, asking for help through formal workplace channels can feel difficult. Others may prefer to speak with someone independent.

Cindy said:

“People can often feel ashamed or insecure about going to formal support networks at work.

“While we have an EAP in place for our own permanent staff, we felt there was increasing demand from our temporary workers.

“This also includes the temporary workers we place for our customers.

“Quite often, people find it easier to open up to a stranger who is an expert, rather than somebody they know.”

Keeping support front of mind

Gi Group has already received regular feedback from site and hub managers that the new EAP model has landed well.

However, the business recognises that communication is key.

The team takes an active approach to implementation. This includes regular reminders, updated resources and clear signposting to the support available.

Cindy added:

“We update the booklets regularly.

“We also keep communicating advice and signposting, so the resources stay front of mind.

“If we do not, it is all too easy for temporary workers to miss the support or forget it is there.”

Investing in worker wellbeing

Proactive wellbeing support can have a direct impact on both people and businesses.

PAM Group’s 2025 Health at Work Report found that proactive wellbeing support makes employees more than twice as likely to take no sick leave. It also makes them eight times more likely to be very or highly productive.

For Gi Group, the new EAP is part of a wider commitment to worker wellbeing.

By giving temporary workers access to practical support, Gi Group aims to help more people manage everyday pressures, seek help earlier and feel better supported at work.