Member Article

EEF backs campaign to tackle stress at work

One of the North East’s key business support bodies is backing a flagship campaign as it believes achieving a work-life balance is key to lowering stress levels and eliminating possible issues which prevail in the region. EEF Northern has signed up to the Work Wise North East campaign, stating that it is firmly committed to challenging traditional nine to five working practices in favour of flexible working practices.

Alan Hall, director of EEF Northern said: “More needs to be done to help employers in both the private and public sector recognise the benefits of flexible working. Prolonged absence from stress related illness not only harms the company, but also causes further anxiety for the employee and reduces the chance of a successful return to work. “Employers need to look after their staff and ensure they have opportunities to work flexibly - this can help to lower stress levels, particularly for carers and parents and can help reduce absenteeism.”

EEF Northern has pledged to improve its own flexible working policy for its 38 staff in Washington, as part of its ongoing commitment to smarter working. EEF has already achieved the ISO 9001 quality management accreditation which tests that companies have appropriate systems in place, including policies affecting staff. This has already improved staff morale and motivation and has resulted much better levels of customer service.

Phil Flaxton, Chief Executive of Work Wise UK said: “We are delighted that EEF has signed up to be a key partner in this campaign. As employment experts, they know only too well that flexible working practices can make a massive difference to the life of the employee and to the company’s bottom line. “A healthy, happy workplace boosts productivity, takes the strain off government and the health service and adds to the bottom line of UK plc. But to reduce absenteeism through the introduction of smarter working practices demands a step-change in employer behaviours.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .