NATCA Announces Collaborative Workgroup: Controller Peer Support Program
We are pleased to inform you that we have reached agreement with the Agency on the creation of a collaborative workgroup to develop a Controller Peer Support (CPS) Program. The CPS will be designed as one method to address the mental health needs of air traffic control specialists. The program is intended to provide peer support for controllers who would like to discuss work/life challenges in a confidential setting built on mutual trust and respect. One of the goals of this program is to help overcome the stigma related to seeking advice regarding mental health and wellness.
The workgroup is tasked with constructing a CPS program that will provide a support network that connects bargaining unit employees with trained bargaining unit peers to talk about any personal or professional problems they may be experiencing. Designated CPS bargaining unit employees listen and offer confidential, nonjudgmental support and refer employees to additional resources as needed.
As some of you may be aware, the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) has a Pilot Peer Support (PPS) Program. We have agreed to develop the framework for the CPS using the principles outlined and in use by ALPA in their PPS.
From the ALPA Pilot Peer Support website:
What is Pilot Peer Support (PPS)?
Pilot Peer Support (PPS) is a network of pilot volunteers who help fellow ALPA members deal with stress from any source—financial problems, family or relationship problems, or any other work or personal issues. PPS volunteers are available 24/7 to listen and offer confidential, nonjudgmental support to ALPA members in the United States and Canada. If your airline does not have its own pilot support program, call PPS.
Don’t let stress affect your livelihood! Talk to a PPS peer before these concerns threaten your medical certificate, career, and life. Peers are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
We will be identifying the NATCA participants to this important workgroup so that it can get started in the coming weeks. The workgroup agreements states that within ninety (90) days of the signing of this agreement, the workgroup will submit to the Joint Sponsors a proposal for the framework of a CPS program.
We will keep you apprised of new information as we receive it.
In Solidarity,
The National Executive Board
