Collegial Support Team (CST) at FGGA

At Leiden University, staff may encounter traumatic incidents in the workplace. To provide appropriate support and aftercare in such situations, the Faculty of Governance and Global Affairs (FGGA) has established a Collegial Support Team (CST) as a pilot project.

What is the CST?

The CST is a team of specially trained colleagues (CST members) who offer support following work-related, significant incidents. The support provided by CST members is collegial: colleagues help each other, with conversations being confidential and focused on resilience and recovery. The CST does not replace professional care but can refer to other professionals if needed.

When can you contact the CST?

The CST is available for situations such as incidents at work that may be emotionally heavy. Examples include a serious work-related event or emergency. Employees, colleagues, and supervisors can all contact the CST.

How does it work?

• Contact: The CST can be reached via:
  • The functional mailbox: BOT@fgga.leidenuniv.nl
  • The HR department of FGGA
• Conversations: A CST member will get in touch within 24 hours. Up to three conversations will follow, providing space for processing, social support, and monitoring well-being.
• Referral: If more help is needed, a CST member may suggest contacting, for example, the occupational health physician or other professionals.

Who are the CST members?
The CST members are staff from FGGA who, in addition to their regular duties, have been trained in support and aftercare conversations. They provide social support and assist in encouraging healthy processing.

Pilot and expansion

The CST at FGGA will start as a pilot on 1st February 2025. After one year, the pilot will be evaluated. If the results are positive, this form of collegial support may be extended to the entire Leiden University.

Have you experienced a significant event or want to know more about the CST? Please contact BOT@fgga.leidenuniv.nl