Managing Stress and Mental Health in the Workplace Policy 2026-2029

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Responsibilities

4.1 Chief Executive / Directors / Heads of Service / Senior Managers

Senior leaders are responsible for the strategic leadership, governance and oversight of this policy. They will:

  • Promote a positive organisational culture where mental health and wellbeing are prioritised and openly discussed.

  • Ensure adequate resources, training, supervision and support mechanisms are in place.

  • Monitor organisational data relating to stress, mental health and sickness absence and act on emerging risks or trends.

  • Ensure compliance with relevant legislation and corporate policies, including the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and associated regulations.

  • Provide clear leadership and hold managers accountable for implementing this policy effectively.

  • Ensure that stress risk management is embedded within service planning, risk management and organisational change processes.

4.2 Line Managers and Supervisors

Line managers and supervisors are responsible for the day-to-day management of stress and mental health within their teams. They will:

  • Undertake suitable and sufficient stress risk assessments and implement appropriate control measures.

  • Monitor workloads, working environments and organisational change to minimise stress-related risks.

  • Maintain regular contact with employees, including structured wellbeing discussions.

  • Identify early signs of stress or mental ill health and take timely, supportive and appropriate action.

  • Support employees in accessing internal and external support mechanisms (e.g. HR, Occupational Health).

  • Ensure confidentiality is maintained while fulfilling their duty of care.

  • Record, review and manage cases consistently and in line with Council procedures.

4.3 Employees (including Agency and Casual Workers)

All employees, including agency and casual workers, have a responsibility to take reasonable care of their own health and wellbeing and that of others. They will:

  • Engage positively with this policy and contribute to a supportive and respectful working environment.

  • Raise concerns relating to stress, mental health or workload at an early stage with their manager or appropriate contact.

  • Co-operate with risk assessments, support plans and any reasonable adjustments implemented.

  • Treat colleagues with dignity and respect and challenge stigma associated with mental ill health.

  • Make appropriate use of the support services available.

4.4 People, Digital and Policy (including HR, Health & Safety, Occupational Health and Learning & Development)

The People, Digital and Policy function will provide professional advice, support and monitoring to ensure effective implementation of this policy. They will:

  • Provide guidance to managers and employees on managing stress and mental health in the workplace.

  • Support risk assessment processes, case management and the implementation of control measures.

  • Deliver training, awareness programmes and supporting guidance materials.

  • Monitor the effectiveness of the policy through data analysis, reporting and review processes.

  • Promote a proactive, preventative and consistent approach across the organisation.

4.5 Elected Members

Elected Members have a responsibility to uphold the principles of this policy in their interactions with employees and the public. They will:

  • Promote equality, dignity and respect in line with the Council’s values.

  • Support the creation of a positive working environment free from stigma and discrimination.

  • Challenge inappropriate behaviour where it is identified.

  • Adhere to the Code of Conduct and associated policies when undertaking their duties.

4.6 Contractors, Volunteers and Visitors

Contractors, volunteers and visitors are expected to act in a manner that supports the health, safety and wellbeing of themselves and others. They will:

  • Comply with relevant Council policies, procedures and site rules when undertaking activities.

  • Take reasonable care of their own mental health and wellbeing and that of others who may be affected by their actions.

  • Report any concerns relating to stress, wellbeing or unsafe practices to a Council representative.

  • Co-operate with any reasonable instructions or control measures in place to manage health and safety risks.