Should employers be held more responsible for stress at the work place?

The current economnic situation is stressful; many employers may strugle to manage on a reduced income. Workers may find their employment at risk; at best their income may be static while inflation decreases the value of money, endangering living standards. If they retain their employment they may have to change the way they work, while facing worries in their personal lives. Stress has been endemic in the workplace for many years. It is unlikely to be less problematic in the present climate. This article notes the number of working days statistics recorded as lost because of stress. it notes the definition of stress and its symptoms. It distinguishes between work-related stress and stress manifested at the workplace. It compares the situation in Britain with that in other European countries and notes the steps taken in the EU and in Britain to make employers aware of work related stress and to take steps to reduce it. Having set the scene it explores the ways in which an employee can frame a claim for compensation for stress at work, overviewing the prospects of success if claiming for negligence, breach of contract or breach of statutory duty. The article concludes by questioning whether employers should, or will actually have greater responsibility