How to support employees affected by the war in Ukraine

As a supportive employer, it is vital that the right care and support is put in place.

The war in Ukraine continues to dominate news headlines and employers should consider the impact it may have on employees.

Many businesses will have employees who have family or friends in Ukraine, or that live close to the border, and may be impacted or distressed by events unfolding there.

As a supportive employer, it is vital that the right care and support is put in place.

Even those not directly impacted may suffer anxiety or have issues at home - for instance dealing with children who are worried about reports they see on television.

The war comes at a time when mental health in the UK is already at an all-time low, impacted by the pandemic and a cost-of-living crisis.

So, how can employers help?

The first step is simply to acknowledge the situation. By asking employees how they are and checking in on their mental health, you can show you care.

Employers have a duty of care not to put employees in danger – and this duty of care extends to those already working in those countries on behalf of the company.

Employers should also consider the impact on Russian employees, at home and abroad, who may fear being bullied or targeted. They may also have families and friends caught up in the conflict.

How to support employees afftected by the crisis in Ukraine

Communicate often and effectively: Communications with those directly impacted by the war should be supportive and frequent. It is important that employees feel fully supported, and that their line manager can anticipate any further support that may be required in future. Identifying those who are suffering in the first place is key, but ensure messages are companywide rather than targeted. Don’t make assumptions about who is affected and who won’t be.

Provide mental health support: Even prior to the Ukraine crisis, mental health concerns have been heightened in the workplace, due in part to the impact of the COVID pandemic, the stresses of modern working and the real issue of an inability to ‘switch off’. Employers should consider what support they can provide, including counselling and access to helplines where appropriate.

Offer flexibility: One of the simplest, yet most effective ways an employer can support their workforce is through providing flexibility to employees who are affected in any way by the ongoing conflict.

Utilise your Employee Assistance Programme: Reminding employees that an EAP programme is available to them (if this is part of your HR heath and wellbeing offering) and outlining what it includes, is helpful. Ensure that employees know how to access it and encourage them to do so.

Offer time out for those most affected: For employees who have family members in the Ukraine, can you offer time out of the workplace to help them support their family member? This could be paid or unpaid but it is important to start the discussion. Being flexible can be a great source of support.

Fundraising: Employees may want to take personal steps to help in the crisis, whether this is to donate emergency supplies, raise money or volunteer to host refugees fleeing from Ukraine. Be proactive in telling employees how they can help and support their actions. Equally, many businesses are fundraising as part of their CSR programmes, providing employees with an effective way to get involved. 

Prepare HR and Line Managers to provide help: Another critical step is to prepare and train HR department and line managers to deal with the implications of the conflict. It is important to consider that Russian employees may also be heavily impacted and ensure you have a zero tolerance of bullying. For companies which employ Ukraine nationals on a visa, hold individual, supportive meetings and help them deal with any visa issues which could add stress and complication. They may also require practical help with immigration advice.

The type and scope of support should be regularly reviewed because the situation in Ukraine continues to change rapidly. By focusing on wellbeing, employers can help their employees through what is a difficult time for so many.