This policy sets out the Company’s aims and objectives for the management of health and safety in relation to harmful stress at work. The intention of the policy is to ensure that employees who experience stress are helped, whatever the causes of that stress.

The Company believes that its employees are its most important asset and that their wellbeing is essential to effective work performance and the provision of a high quality service.

Whilst the Company has no control over external factors, it will take action to eliminate, or where possible reduce, those causes of stress within its control.

Nevertheless, there may be times when some employees require professional help or support. For this reason, the Company recommends that employees seeking help should normally approach the Company Health and Safety Manager in the first instance. The Company Health and Safety Manager can provide guidance and assistance, which may include the provision of counselling or medical services where necessary.

Some employees may be reluctant to admit that they are experiencing adverse effects as a result of stress. This policy acknowledges that any employees, at whatever level, can experience stress at work. The Company considers that seeking help and support should be seen as a positive approach, to be encouraged and dealt with without jeopardy, and not to be viewed in any sense as an admission of weakness.