New self-referral process – supporting you when you need it most
As an improvement to the services we offer, the RNLI’s Occupational Health and Wellbeing Team is launching a new self-referral service for work or volunteering related mental health support, now available directly through our online system, OPAS-G2.
Whatever your role at the RNLI, we understand that your health and wellbeing are essential to keeping our lifesaving mission going strong. That’s why we’re making it easier for volunteers and staff to seek mental health support when symptoms arise that may be related to your duties or work at the RNLI.
What is a self-referral?
At the RNLI, a self-referral allows you to independently request support or guidance from Occupational Health when you're experiencing a work or volunteering related mental health issue that’s affecting your ability to attend work or safely carry out your duties.
Self-referrals can be made when you're experiencing symptoms of work or volunteering related mental ill health, for example:
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Work or volunteering related exposure to a traumatic incident
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Exposure to repeated traumatic incidents over time
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Work or volunteering related issues contributing to anxiety or depression
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Past trauma that is re-triggered by your current work or volunteering activities
We recognise that these experiences are deeply personal, and sometimes difficult to talk about. This new service provides an opportunity to reach out confidentially and take the first step towards tailored support without the need for a formal management referral.
We would always encourage individuals to seek advice, guidance and support from their manager, but in some circumstances this may not be possible or easy to do.
The self-referral portal may not be suitable for your needs, especially if your symptoms are related to a life event in your personal life, such as bereavement or relationship breakdown.
Where to access the self-referral link
The self-referral service is available now. Those with an RNLI login can also find this link on the Occupational Health Compass page or the Medicals and Health Horizon page.
You will be taken through to the OPAS system and be prompted to supply your email address. This will need to be one the RNLI recognises, either the one you have supplied for your personnel record (or your RNLI email address, if you have one). If you don't receive an access code and have checked your junk folder, it's likely the email you've used is not recorded on our system. If you don't have an RNLI email address, please try an alternative email, update your record in the Volunteer Platform, or contact the Volunteer Experience Team for help in doing this.
Once you've received an access code, simply follow the link to the OPAS-G2 self-referral form, insert your RNLI email address and complete the relevant details. The OH team will then contact you to arrange an appointment for a confidential chat.
Is it confidential?
All self-referrals are treated with strict confidentiality and handled by qualified health professionals who understand the unique demands of RNLI roles. No referral from a manager is needed; this is your space to seek support independently.
Whether you're struggling after a recent incident, feeling the cumulative strain of your duties, or need help managing your psychological wellbeing, we’re here to listen and to help.
If you have questions about the process or need help accessing the system, please contact the Occupational Health and Wellbeing Team on [email protected]
If you need to discuss your situation with HR, please speak with your Volunteer Advisor. You can also find other support on the Wellbeing page.
Together, let’s continue to support each other in the work that saves lives.