Stress Management

The University is committed via this policy and other guidance to establishing an effective and consistent approach to the prevention of work-related stress throughout the university and to provide supporting services where cases of stress are identified.

This will be achieved through the following:-

• Identifying workplace stressors and carrying out risk assessments to eliminate or control the risks from stress
• Providing good stress management training for all appropriate managers
• Establishing arrangements and procedures for the early identification and dealing with cases of stress
  
• Providing a confidential counselling service to support staff in managing personal stress levels
• Providing sensitive and planned management of return to work, following sickness absence
• Promoting partnerships between management, individuals and the recognised trade unions, with the aim of reducing stress in the workplace
• Decide on improvement targets and action plans, in consultation with staff representatives.

Useful links 

See Policies and Procedures - A to Z for Stress Policy, Managers Guide and Employees Guide

Health & Safety Team
healthy and safe workplace; information, advice, training and support

[EN]gage
sport, fitness, exercise classes, personal training, massage therapies

Human Resources & Development
work/life balance, flexible working, childcare vouchers, staff development, occupational health service,
stress risk assessment

Employee assistance programme
confidential counselling, website

Property & Facilities
work/study environment, healthy eating, bike to work, sustainability

Student Wellbeing & Inclusion
information, advice and support
counselling, mental health service

ENSA
student health and wellbeing

Other useful links to external resources:
awareness, guidance, information and training 

      

Free, confidential phone service for anyone in Scotland experiencing low mood, depression or anxiety

 Managing stress and psychosocial risks Eguide

HSE - Stress at Work - guidance on the management of stress at work

HSE - Talking Toolkit​ - help for line managers to have simple, practical conversations with employees which can help prevent stress

Mental Health training and development resources - NHS Lothian

Thriving at Work The Stevenson / Farmer review of mental health and employers
Independent review into how employers can better support all individuals currently in employment including those with mental ill health or poor well-being to remain in and thrive through work - October 2017

​Healthy Working Lives Lothian Newsletter - October/November/December 2018​