The Health and Safety Executive has launched a free online learning module to help employers get to grips with risk assessment of work-related stress. The launch coincides with Mental Health Awareness Week (12-18 May) and expands HSE’s Working Minds campaign, which aims to support businesses in preventing work-related stress and supporting good mental health.

With around half of all work-related ill health attributed to stress, depression and anxiety, the new module provides guidance for employers on conducting effective risk assessments, identifying root causes of work-related stress, and implementing solutions that have a real impact.

Kayleigh Roberts, from HSE’s engagement and policy division, said: “Preventing work-related stress isn’t just the right thing to do for your workers, it’s also a legal requirement. Our new online learning module aims to make it easier for businesses, particularly small to medium organisations to understand their obligations and what they need to do on a practical level.

“This is about embedding good practices into everyday business operations. By taking a proactive approach, employers can improve productivity, reduce sickness absence, and retain their valued workers. The module provides all the practical templates, tools and resources needed to get started or to review existing practices.”

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