Manager Check-in Script

Gives managers, supervisors and business owners a simple, respectful script for checking in with a team member about their wellbeing, without diagnosing, prying or breaking confidentiality.

What you will need

What prompted this check-in?: This shapes the script.
What have you noticed? Facts only (text): For example 'late three times this week', 'quieter in meetings'. Avoid labels like 'depressed'.
Are you worried they may harm themselves or someone else, or are in danger? (yes/no/not sure): More detail. If yes or not sure, the script adds urgent steps.
Where and when will you talk? (text): More detail. Choose somewhere private, not in front of others, with time not to rush.

How it works

Build a script: 1) Opener: 'I wanted to check in with you. I have noticed [observations], and I am asking because I care how you are doing, not to catch you out.' 2) Open questions: 'How are things for you at the moment?', 'Is anything at work or outside work making things harder?', 'What would help right now?' 3) Listening tips: let silence happen, do not rush to solve, do not share their story with others. 4) Do not say: 'Everyone is stressed', 'Just toughen up', any diagnosis or label. 5) Offer: practical work adjustments you can agree to; the EAP (self-referral is confidential); the Cleared Mind 24-hour Careline 0800 212 146. 6) Close: agree one next step and a follow-up date. IF situation == performance has dropped THEN add: separate the wellbeing conversation from any formal performance process, and explain that support is available either way. IF situation == after a traumatic incident THEN add: do not push for details; offer EAP trauma support; watch for changes in the following weeks. IF situation == return from leave THEN link Return-to-Work Plan. IF safety_concern in (yes, not sure) THEN add at top: 'If someone is in immediate danger, stay with them if safe and call 10111, 10177 or 112 from a mobile. For thoughts of suicide, call the Suicide Crisis Helpline 0800 567 567 together.' and advise informing HR or the EAP the same day while sharing only what is needed. Confidentiality note: keep what is shared private, record only what is needed, and explain any limits (serious risk of harm) honestly up front.

What you get

Your check-in script
Do and do not list
Follow-up date and note

What it means

Safety comes first today, and you do not have to handle this alone.
Keeping support and performance conversations separate helps people speak honestly.
You do not need the right words, just a private moment, genuine interest and a clear next step.

Next step: Want help interpreting this? Call the EAP manager consultation line through your ClearedMind portal or the Cleared Mind 24-hour Careline 0800 212 146.

Runs on the device. Nothing is saved unless the member chooses.