Workplace stress is a growing problem that affects everyone. Some stress is unavoidable but excessive stress caused by an employer’s negligence can lead to serious mental health problems and stress related illnesses. If you have suffered work related stress that has affected your mental or physical health you may be able to make a stress at work claim to get compensation.
This guide will help you understand workplace stress claims, the claims process and what to do to get a winning claim.
Workplace Stress and Employer Liability
Employers have a legal obligation to keep their employees’ mental wellbeing and physical health by taking reasonable steps to prevent work stress. If an employer’s negligence caused excessive workloads, harassment, or unsafe working conditions they may be liable for a work compensation claim.
Common causes of stress at work are:
✔ Long hours without regular breaks or paid leave
✔ Bullying, harassment or discrimination (breach of the Harassment Act)
✔ No proper training for job responsibilities
✔ No risk assessments to prevent health problems
✔ Ignoring employee complaints about working hours and conditions
If your employer failed to meet their legal duty to provide a safe workplace and you have stress related illnesses you may be able to claim compensation.
How to Make a Stress at Work Claim
Making a personal injury claim for work related stress involves several steps. Here’s how to get started:
1. Get Medical Attention
Your medical records are key evidence in proving the impact of workplace stress on your mental or physical health. If you have lost weight, have muscle pain, sleep disturbances or anxiety go see a doctor for a medical report.
2. Tell Your Employer
Before making a work compensation claim you must inform your employer of your stress levels and ask for reasonable adjustments such as confidential counselling, rest periods or workload changes. Keep written proof of your complaint.
3. Get Evidence to Support Your Claim
To prove that your employer knew about your stress and did nothing, get:
- Emails and letters about workplace stress
- Medical expenses receipts and therapy costs
- Bank statements showing financial losses due to stress related absences
- Work schedules showing excessive workloads and long hours
4. Talk to Personal Injury Solicitors
A personal injury team will offer free advice and assess if you have a viable claim. Many personal injury solicitors work on a conditional fee agreement (no win, no fee basis) so you don’t have to worry about legal fees upfront.
5. Submit Your Work Stress Claim
If your employer didn’t take reasonable steps to prevent excessive stress your solicitor will help you issue a claim for compensation for:
✔ Lost wages from time off work
✔ Medical expenses and therapy costs
✔ Travel expenses for treatment
✔ Emotional distress and loss of daily life quality
How Much Compensation Can You Claim for Stress at Work?
The amount of compensation depends on:
- The severity of your mental or physical health
- Financial losses, paid leave and travel expenses
- Medical expenses for counselling, medication and rehabilitation
If your employer was negligent and you have serious health problems you may get more. A free consultation with an expert will give you an idea of how much you can claim.
Time Limit to Claim
You have a three year time limit from when you were diagnosed to make a work stress claim. But it’s best to start the claim process as soon as possible so all medical reports and evidence is still valid.
Conclusion: Talk to Us About Your Work Stress Claim
If you’re stressed due to work stress and your employer has ignored you, you may be entitled to compensation. Seek legal advice for your stress at work claim, with a personal injury team to help you through the work compensation process you should get the justice you’re owed.
For expert guidance on your compensation claim, contact Martyn Prowel Gartsides Solicitors today and take the first step toward securing the compensation you deserve.
