Requesting a welfare check for a team member
If you're concerned about a team member's wellbeing and they're part of Sonder, you can ask Sonder to reach out and check in on them.
What is a welfare check?
Welfare checks may be conducted by Sonder upon request if you are a manager, work friend or colleague and have a concern for one of your team members/students. These welfare checks are to ensure that members are safe, healthy and aware of the support that can be provided through Sonder should they need it.
When to request a welfare check:
You might request a welfare check if you've noticed:
- A change in behaviour or mood
- Someone seems withdrawn or unusually stressed
- A team member has mentioned personal challenges
- You're concerned about someone's safety or wellbeing (medical, mental health or safety reasons)
How to request it:
- Open the Sonder app and press the "Get Support" button, then start a chat or call
- Explain the reason and background for the request, as this will allow us to choose the best response when contacting your team member/student
- The Sonder team will request the contact details of the person you are concerned about, and attempt to make contact. Please note, we will provide the team member/student your name so they are aware of where the request came from, to foster trust and a culture of care.
- Sonder assess the scenaroi and suppor tthe member as required
- You'll be informed whether contact was made (either yes or no). No personal details are shared back to you.
What happens next:
The Sonder team will:
- Reach out to the team member in-app, via text, phone call or on-site depending on the situation
- Offer support and connect them to resources or further help if needed
- Gather details to understand how best to help
- Close the loop and move forward with care
Privacy and confidentiality:
- The team member will know who from their work expressed the concern, but not what was said
- No details from the conversation with the team member are shared back to the person who requested it
- This is a confidential process designed to help, not flag or investigate
- The team member's privacy is always protected
Frequently asked questions.
What if I'm not sure but I'm concerned, can I still request one?
Reach out to the Sonder Team via the app and talk it through. They can help you decide if a welfare check is the right step or if there are other ways to support the person. If they do need help, you've opened the door to support.
How long does it take for someone to be contacted after I request a check?Sonder aims to contact the person as soon as possible, usually within the same business day or the next day depending on the situation. If you flag it as urgent or express serious safety concerns, Sonder prioritises faster outreach. When you request the check via the app, let the Care Specialist know if it feels time-sensitive.
How often can I use welfare checks?
There's no limit. Welfare checks are designed to be used whenever you have serious concern about someone at work/university. You can request checks on different team members.
What happens if the member doesn't answer?
The Sonder Team will attempt to reach the member you are concerned about through different channels depending on the situation. If contact can't be made, the member is left instructions on how to get back in touch with Sonder should they wish to. You'll be informed if contact was unsuccessful. If you remain concerned, we recommend contacting Emergency Services.