In a recent study conducted by personal injury experts at Claims.co.uk, the human health and social work industry has emerged as the most stressful sector in the UK.
The study analysed data from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to determine the number of self-reported stress illnesses per 100,000 workers from March 2022 to March 2023, ultimately revealing the top 10 most stressful industries.
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Human Health and Social Work Activities
The human health and social work industry tops the list, with 3,530 individuals per 100,000 workers reporting stress-related illnesses. Despite its high stress levels, this industry boasts a substantial average salary range of £17,000 to £63,000, encompassing professions such as doctors, therapists, and nursing home assistants.
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Public Defence
Public defence, ranking second, witnesses 3,260 reported stress-related illnesses per 100,000 workers. Security guards and prison officers in this sector, with an average salary range of £18,000 to £31,000, face heightened stress levels.
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Education
The education industry claims the third spot, with 2,720 individuals per 100,000 workers reporting work-related stress. With an average salary range of £28,000 to £40,000, teachers and educators grapple with overwhelming stress, affecting nearly three in 100 workers.
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Professional, Scientific, and Technical Activities
Professionals in the scientific and technical industry, including solicitors and barristers, rank fourth. The study reveals that 2,310 per 100,000 workers suffer from work-related stress, with an average salary range of £25,000 to £48,000.
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Finance
The finance industry, encompassing roles such as accountants and bankers, ranks fifth. Despite 2,140 workers reporting stress-related illnesses per 100,000 people, the industry boasts a high salary range of £28,000 to £54,000.
6-10.
Real Estate, Information and Communication, Arts and Entertainment, Wholesale and Retail Trade, Accommodation and Food Service Activities
The real estate industry, information and communication sector, arts and entertainment field, wholesale and retail trade, and accommodation and food service activities round out the remaining stressful industries, each presenting unique challenges.
Tips on Making a Personal Injury Claim for Stress:
Identify The Cause of Your Stress
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- Recognise the source of stress, such as heavy workloads, lack of support, or workplace bullying
Make a Note of Your Emotions
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- Keep daily notes of emotions to track changes in mental health over time.
Speak to Your Employer About Concerns
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- Address concerns with employers before considering a personal injury claim.
Keep Track of Any GP Appointments
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- Maintain medical records for potential personal injury claims.
In response to the findings, a spokesperson from Claims.co.uk emphasised the importance of recognising and addressing mental health concerns in the workplace. They urged employers to foster open communication to create a supportive environment for employees.
The study highlights the necessity for individuals experiencing work-related stress to consider personal injury claims, emphasising that such claims extend beyond physical injuries to include mental, emotional, and psychological harm. If you have experienced stress at work, seeking legal advice is recommended for a comprehensive understanding of your rights and options.
Amelia Brand is the Editor for HRreview, and host of the HR in Review podcast series. With a Master’s degree in Legal and Political Theory, her particular interests within HR include employment law, DE&I, and wellbeing within the workplace. Prior to working with HRreview, Amelia was Sub-Editor of a magazine, and Editor of the Environmental Justice Project at University College London, writing and overseeing articles into UCL’s weekly newsletter. Her previous academic work has focused on philosophy, politics and law, with a special focus on how artificial intelligence will feature in the future.
