Cultivating a Culture of Care
Help your colleagues connect to resources and support they need.
The FSSN is designed to address an important gap: how to intervene on behalf of someone who appears to be struggling. It is a supplement to the many other community resources available to DU employees.
What do I do when I witness faculty or staff under duress?
FACULTY/STAFF RESOURCES
DAYTIME RESOURCES
Campus Safety Emergency
303-871-3000
(on campus: x1+3000)
Campus Safety Non-Emergency
303-871-2334
(on campus: x1+2334)
Well-being Program for Faculty and Staff
303-871-3840
Well@DU.edu
Website
AFTER HOURS RESOURCES
Campus Safety
303-871-3000
(on campus: x1+3000)
SupportLinc – Employee Assistance Program
SupportLinc provides 24/7 access to confidential resources from your phone or computer.
1-888-881-LINC (5462)
Website
Username: universityofdenver
Colorado Crisis Services
844-493-8255
(or text “TALK” to 38255)
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
800-273-8255
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I use the FSSN
If you notice that a co-worker or colleague is behaving in a way that causes you concern or creates an environment at work that you believe is harmful or unsafe, the FSSN is a way to intervene discretely, without concern of repercussion. The referral form is here.
Can I self-refer through the FSSN? And if so, why would I use this platform?
Yes. If you would like advice about what assistance you may need, or where within DU is the right place to turn, you can refer yourself to the FSSN by completing the form here.
Will FSSN referrals be shared with Human Resources?
Although DU’s wellbeing coordinator is housed within Human Resources and Inclusive Excellence, the FSSN process is handled entirely separately from any personnel or performance processes. Our first concern is the safety and wellbeing of our DU community members. Only after the referred employee receives the necessary support will any possible employment policy violations be reviewed and addressed.
Is this a private referral process? Are referrals confidential or anonymous?
Referrals are received by DU’s wellbeing program coordinator, who then shares the information with two other members of the behavioral intervention team. Thereafter, information is shared on a need-to-know basis in order to ensure that appropriate next steps are taken in a timely fashion and with as little exposure as possible for all parties. The referral form is not anonymous, but the referrer’s identity will be kept confidential.
Is there someone I can consult with prior to submitting a referral?
Yes. At any time, employees can reach out to DU’s wellbeing program coordinator by email or phone (303-871-3840) to discuss resources and options.
What do I do in an emergency situation?
An emergency is a situation that poses an immediate risk to health, life, property, or environment. In life-threatening emergencies, or when you need immediate assistance from police, fire or medical professionals, make the following TWO calls: 911 and 303-871-3000. TTY teletypewriter users should call 911.
Is there a cost for the FSSN support, or will health insurance be impacted?
If the behavioral assistance team believes further support is required, the employee in need will be referred to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for up to six free counseling sessions by a local EAP provider. Thereafter, if additional treatment is recommended, the EAP will work collaboratively with the employee and their medical insurance carrier to access the most clinically appropriate in-network provider or program. The employee will then be billed according to their medical insurance plan design.
Will the person who is referred to the FSSN experience negative consequences?
No. The University is committed to prioritizing the well-being of employees, and to ensuring a safe and respectful work environment for all. Only after an employee receives the resources they need, will any concerns be addressed that are related to inappropriate behaviors or failure to meet job expectations.
Who will evaluate referrals?
The FSSN is staffed by three University health professionals who form a behavioral intervention team. The team evaluates referrals and determines next steps. In many cases, the FSSN team will be able to handle the case internally. However, if the team determines that outside resources are needed, then further referral will take place and the employee who has been referred will be supported through the process.
How will the FSSN team know whether a referral is being made in good faith?
The FSSN team will review each referal in the spirit the program is intended. On the rare occasion that a referral is determined to have been submitted in bad faith, the team will partner with HRIC, Campus Safety, and other appropriate University offices to flag the referrer for followup.