Stress Management

Introduction

We are committed to protecting the health, safety and welfare of our employees. We recognise that workplace stress is a health and safety issue and acknowledge the importance of identifying and reducing workplace stressors. This policy will apply to everyone in the playgroup. The committee is responsible for implementation and over seeing the manager/play leader.

Definition of Stress

The Health and Safety Executive define stress as "the adverse reaction people have to excessive pressure or other types of demand placed on them". This makes an important distinction between pressure, which can be a positive state if managed correctly, and stress which can be detrimental to health. The playgroup will identify all workplace stressors and conduct risk assessments to eliminate stress or control the risks from stress. These risk assessments will be regularly reviewed. The playgroup will consult with Trade Union Representatives on all proposed action relating to the prevention of workplace stress. The playgroup will provide training for all managers and supervisory staff in good management practices.

Responsibilities

Managers:

• Conduct and implement recommendations of risks assessments within their jurisdiction.
• Ensure good communication between management and staff, particularly where there are organisational and procedural changes.
• Ensure staff are fully trained to discharge their duties.
• Ensure staff are provided with meaningful developmental opportunities.
• Monitor workloads to ensure that people are not overloaded.
• Monitor working hours and overtime to ensure that staff are not overworking. Monitor holidays to ensure that staff are taking their full entitlement.
• Attend training as requested in good management practice and health and safety.
• Ensure that bullying and harassment is not tolerated within their jurisdiction.
• Be vigilant and offer additional support to a member of staff who is experiencing stress outside work e.g. bereavement or separation.

Occupational health and safety staff:

• Support individuals who have been off sick with stress and advise them and their management on a planned return to work.
• Refer to own GP or specialist agencies as required.
• Monitor and review the effectiveness of measures to reduce stress.

Employees:

• Raise issues of concern with your line manager.
• Accept advice on visiting your GP if needed.

Safety Committee:

• The Committee will perform a pivotal role in ensuring that this policy is implemented.
• The Committee will oversee monitoring of the efficacy of the policy and other measures to reduce stress and promote workplace health and safety.