Stress at Work in Financial Services
In 2005 the Health and Safety Executive recognised the Financial Services industry as one of the 5 sectors with the most stress related problems in the UK. Together with the NHS, Local authorities, Education and Central Government, the financial sector has been recognised as a sector needing urgent support to address the issues of stress related illness.
A survey of bank employees (FSU, 2002) identifies the most important changes affecting the banking industry and its workers lives over the last 10 years as including: fewer staff but increased workloads (77 per cent); higher performance and sales targets (76 per cent) and increased business pressure (69 per cent). Job cutbacks had increased the burden on surviving members of staff, with a substantial number of employees in the finance sector required to work overtime.
The Financial Services industry faces many challenges including, introduction of weekend working, long hours culture, particularly in head offices, and public facing roles which can include a fear of violence.
Several factors have contributed to the overall stress levels including extensive restructuring from intense merger activity and increased competition - both domestically and internationally.
How we can help
At Equilibrium we are able to provide training and consultancy to help to manage the increased risk to the organisation resulting from these factors. We can help organisations in the Financial Services Sector work towards fulfilling their duty of care obligations.
Resources for the Financial Services Sector:
- Stress Policy Guide
- Stress Risk Assessment Guide
- In-house training for Managers in the Financial Services Industry
- In-house training for All Employees in the Financial Services Industry
- Case Study: Financial Services
- Consultancy and Support for Financial Services Industry
- Further information on call centres coming soon
Please contact Alastair Taylor on 0131 476 5027 for further information on any of our services specifically relating to issues in the Financial Services Sector.
