We are pleased to announce the launch of a new Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) provider, Spectrum Life, from 5 May 2025. This change follows direct staff feedback on the limitations of the previous provision.
As with all Thriving at Oxford initiatives, this investment reflects the University’s determination to make Oxford a place where colleagues feel supported, valued, and able to thrive, strengthening our position as a great place to work for all.
What’s Changing?
- Spectrum Life will replace Heath Assured as the University’s EAP provider.
- The new service offers confidential 24/7 access to trained counsellors via phone, WhatsApp, SMS, live chat, and the Spectrum Life wellbeing platform.
- Structured short-term counselling sessions (up to 6 sessions where clinically indicated) will be available alongside a wide range of services, including legal, financial, consumer advice, and wellbeing resources.
- The service extends to employees’ partners and dependants aged 16+ (still living at home).
- To ensure a smooth transition, the Health Assured service will continue until 3 July 2025.
The new offer significantly broadens the range of accessible support, combining expert-led interventions with a comprehensive library of wellbeing tools.
How to access the new service
From 5 May 2025, employees will be able to access the EAP via:
- Freephone (UK): 0044 800 031 8383.
- Freephone (International): 00 353 1 518 0277
- WhatsApp or SMS: Text “Hi” to +44 74 18360780
- Live chat or request-a-callback via the Spectrum Live app and web platform app.spectrum.life
No access code is required – employees simply confirm they are part of the University of Oxford community.
Full guidance, FAQ’s, and promotional resources will be available on the Thriving at Oxford website from 5 May. The EAP forms part of Thriving at Oxford and is delivered through the Pay & Conditions programme.