One in two workers in the motor trade suffer from issues with mental health and wellbeing, recent figures have revealed.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and its Working Minds campaign recently joined forces with motor trade organisations to she light on the the issue of work-related stress in the automotive repair industry.
The charity, Ben, revealed the figures that one in two workers in the sector have battled issues relating to mental health and wellbeing within the past year, with 50% involved in the industry were likely to have been struggling with stress, anxiety, some underlying worry, low mood or even depression.
A 190% rise in staff turning to workplace perks of counselling and financial assessment advice was also recorded by the organisation. The increase in enquiries has been noted during the winter months, when people tend to spend more time indoors and away from other people.
People who have been experiencing financial issues have also been much more likely to get in touch, according to the research.
Ellen Plummer, Ben’s Head of Outreach, Health and Wellbeing stated:
“Each year thousands of people come to Ben with mental health issues as their primary concern. From results of latest survey of those in the automotive industry, one in two workers have struggled in the past 12 months. Stress is the most common issue, followed by anxiety and poor sleep.
“Work life balance and high workload are the biggest drivers of workplace stress. If it’s not addressed and goes on for a long period of time, it can turn into an issue. We know there is a strong link between money worries and mental health.
“If you’re struggling with money, then you’re likely to be stressed and anxious. It’s really important for employers to understand that all areas of a person’s life impacts health and wellbeing. Work is a big part of life so it’s important to make people feel like they matter, are heard and feel supported.”
HSE figures estimate that 914,000 cases of work-related stress, depression or anxiety from workers in Great Britain within the 2021/2022 period alone, which is a notable 11% rise from the previous period’s 822,000 recorded cases. This accounts for more than half of all working days lost.
On top of this, research from the industry regulator for motor vehicle repair, wholesale and retail, shows that the workplace injury rate is significantly in 2021/2022 when compared to most other industries.
The law requires all employers to safeguard workers from not only accidents in the workplace, but also excessive stress and other factors that may impact the mental wellbeing of the workforce. Failing to do so is a breach of the duty of care afforded to all employees on behalf of the employer.
Further reading
Stress at work – Oakwood Solicitors
Accidents at work – Oakwood Solicitors
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Jessica Rowson started as a Paralegal at Oakwood Solicitors in July 2010, qualifying as a Solicitor in September 2013. Following her qualifying as a Solicitor, Jessica established a niche department …
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