Ensuring security and business continuity during an outbreak:- www.deekpay.com

The new crown epidemic has created unprecedented challenges to the global economy, businesses and the lives of people around the world. Home quarantine, maintaining social distance and complying with nationwide lockdown measures have changed the way businesses operate and put pressure on employees. In this context, organisations need to ensure that their employees have adequate logistical support and mechanisms in place to overcome physical and emotional challenges.

The health, safety and well-being of employees and their families should be an employer's top priority during an outbreak. It is important for organisations to clearly communicate the support that is available to employees. For example, at PayU, we have a dedicated 24-hour IVR helpline where employees and their families can stay informed about the outbreak.

We have also implemented a long-term employee wellness strategy, as the lockdown will continue for some time. As the office and home are now one and the same, we encourage employees to consult with management to determine a daily "off time" - any two hours of the day, including working hours, when employees can turn off all screens to improve their overall health.

Emotional wellbeing is just as important as physical safety. Now more than ever, organisations should invest in the mental health of their employees. That's why we've launched our Employee Assistance Programme, which provides psychological, financial and legal counselling to employees and their families. This specialist counselling service is designed to help employees cope with sudden lifestyle changes. Click here to learn more about our Employee Assistance Programme.

In addition to this, we have launched a series of online seminars to share ways to maintain mental balance. Seminar topics include 'Mental health in times of isolation' and 'How to keep your sanity'. Management will also be invited to attend a separate webinar series on how to improve team morale.

Acknowledging and addressing concerns about safety at work is equally important. Companies need to be transparent about their business plans and honest about the impact of COVID-19. Our CEO and leadership team have assured employees that performance evaluations will proceed as planned, offers for recently hired employees will not be withdrawn, and onboarding dates will not be delayed. We have also addressed a number of other issues, including early payroll requirements, reimbursement for internet connections, and enabling VPN connections.

In times of uncertainty, employees seek guidance, comfort and direction from their leaders. At PayU, our CEO and leadership team regularly communicate with employees through online communication sessions to share business updates and answer employee questions. Many leaders use internal communication channels to share messages of hope and encourage employees to remain calm and resilient. One such channel is the Facebook workplace, where employees around the world stay connected, participating in online community chats, sharing documents and collaborating on projects.

One of the most popular communities on Workplace at the moment is the global COVID-19 Staying Safe and Healthy Together group, where employees share information, tips and experiences to help others take precautions and stay safe.The Workplace community is a great place to keep morale up, and the informal groups help people feel more connected and less isolated. Topics of discussion range from anecdotes during quarantine to anger about the outbreak or new hobbies developed during self-imposed quarantine, but they all have a common goal - to help everyone stay active and connected!

This is a challenging time for all of us and we will continue to work hard to get through it with you. Learn more about us, our products and initiatives and stay tuned.