Embalmers Assistance Programme (EAP)

Working in the funeral sector comes with a unique set of pressures. Regular exposure to death, grief, and at times traumatic situations can take a toll – emotionally and mentally.

The New Zealand Embalmers Association recognises this, and is committed to supporting members not just professionally, but personally as well.

That’s why we’ve partnered with TELUS Health to provide the Embalmers Assistance Programme (EAP) – a confidential wellbeing service designed to support you and your family.

What is the Embalmers Assistance Programme?

The Embalmers Assistance Programme is a free, confidential support service available to all NZEA members and their immediate family.

It provides access to professional support for both personal and work-related challenges, delivered by qualified clinicians who understand the realities of high-stress and emotionally demanding work.

What’s included?

Confidential counselling and support;

Access to qualified, experienced clinicians across New Zealand
Support for issues including stress, anxiety, grief, trauma, burnout, relationships, and workplace challenges
Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Delivered face-to-face, by phone, or online - depending on what works best for you
Option to choose your preferred clinician

Session entitlement;

6 sessions per presenting issue, per year
There is no limit to the number of different issues you can seek support for throughout the year.

This means you can access support as things arise — whether it’s a one-off challenge or multiple areas over time.

Who can access the Programme?

The programme is available to: NZEA members, and their immediate family, including your spouse or partner, and dependents living in the same household.

This ensures support is available not just for you, but for those around you as well.

More than counselling

The programme also provides access to practical, everyday support:

Financial guidance;

Budgeting and managing debt
Financial planning and support during major life events

Legal advice;

General personal legal guidance (e.g. family matters, disputes, contracts)

Nutrition support;

Advice to support energy, wellbeing, and overall health

These services are designed to help reduce stress in all areas of life — not just at work.

Wellbeing platform access

Members and their families also have access to the TELUS Health Wellbeing Platform, available via web and mobile.

This includes:

Articles, tools, and videos on topics like stress, sleep, grief, and work-life balance
Self-guided wellbeing programmes (including practical tools based on cognitive behavioural techniques)
Personalised content and resources available anytime
Direct access to support through the platform.