April is Stress Awareness Month and the primary aims are to:
- Educate about the causes and effects of stress.
- Promote effective stress management techniques to enhance mental health and wellbeing.
- Encourage open conversations to reduce the stigma surrounding stress and mental health issues.
- Provide resources and support to help individuals and organisations manage stress effectively.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has a free online learning module for managers HSE Workplace Stress. This interactive module is specifically designed to help mangers take practical action to prevent work related stress. The course covers the 5R’s – Reach out, Recognise, Respond, Reflect and Routine and it looks at the actions managers can take to address stress in the workplace.
Somerset Council’s Supporting Wellbeing, Work Related Stress Policy and Guidance explain how our Self-Assessment and Talking Toolkit can be used to support staff. The Guidance document contains advice for managers and employees, as well as frequently asked questions. There is also a section on recognising signs and symptoms of stress.
Stress situations can vary significantly, and there isn’t a single management approach that works for everyone. This six-step method for managers includes links to available tools, but leads with conversation, flexibility and shared problem solving:
- Have an open and supportive conversation as early as possible to understand how the employee is feeling and what may be contributing to this.
- Take a case-by-case approach, recognising that the causes of stress, and the most effective solutions will differ between individuals.
- Use the policy, guidance and resources outlined in the communication to support open, constructive discussions.
- Encourage and, where appropriate, work through the F15b with the employee to help identify potential work related stressors.
- Discuss any issues identified and agree practical actions together, including a proportionate action plan to help reduce or manage stress.
- Agree how support will be provided going forward, including follow up and review.
Further support
Employee Assistance Programme
From 1 April 2026, our Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) will be provided by People Asset Management (PAM) Wellbeing. This free, confidential service is available to all eligible school staff and offers emotional and practical support for both work-related and personal issues. For further details, there is a PAM SSE webpage.
