The National Environment Service (NES) has taken a significant step towards supporting the wellbeing of its staff, signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with RedPack on Wednesday, 24 June 2026, to provide confidential counselling services for all employees.
The agreement, signed between NES and RedPack Chief Executive Officer Julia Evans, reflects the organisation’s commitment to fostering a healthy, resilient, and supportive workplace.
The MOU follows discussions that began over a year ago during a NES Strategy Day, where staff identified access to professional counselling services as a priority for improving workplace wellbeing.
All counselling services will remain strictly confidential, ensuring staff have access to professional support in a safe and trusted environment
Fittingly, with the newly released Cook Islands Government Healthy Workforce Policy 2026, this partnership demonstrating NES’s commitment to turning policy into meaningful action.
NES Manager of Environmental Policy and Planning, Tekura Moeka’a noted that “investing in staff wellbeing is essential to building a resilient organisation capable of delivering for the people and environment of the Cook Islands.”
RedPack CEO Julia Evans said “I’m incredibly grateful to NES for placing such value on the wellbeing of their people. Seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness, and I’m excited to partner with NES to provide a safe, confidential space where staff feel heard, supported, and empowered. Together, we’re investing in healthier people, stronger teams, and a more resilient workplace.”
In addition to individual counselling services, RedPack will deliver a series of staff wellbeing workshops during August 2026, focusing on topics such as stress management, resilience, and mental wellbeing.
NES welcomes this partnership that prioritises staff wellbeing and takes this opportunity to thank Julia for her space, service to our Cook Islands people.
