Restructuring is health risk

Employers should carry out risk assessments when restructuring, public services union UNISON has warned, in the wake of new findings which show that the move can seriously harm workers’ health.

The union helped carry out Health in restructuring, a report supported by the European Commission. The research found that workers who take part in restructuring are 2.5% more likely to get ill, with workers who lose their jobs and survivors both affected.

The organisations’ efficiency is also likely to suffer, as there is increased absence, a rise in injury and accident rates and in a range of depressive disorders. This may lead to other stress-related illnesses creating a vicious cycle of ill health that is work-related.

Greg Thomson, UNISON national development manager and co-author of the report, said: “Restructuring is common during a recession and workers need to be treated as fairly as possible.

“Restructuring can also have an impact on the family and friends of those affected, as it may involve relocation as the only option to retaining the post. This can be expensive, lonely and disruptive.”

UNISON wants employers to follow its five-point plan to prevent health and safety issues during restructuring. It wants employers to be open about any proposed restructuring and to consult properly.

In addition, workers should be given access to counselling. And workers who lose their jobs should be properly compensated as well as given training to help them find other jobs.