Mental health is focus for union guidance

People with mental health problems “experience some of the most severe disability discrimination in the workplace” according to new TUC guidance for union reps.

One in six workers experiences depression, anxiety or stress-related problems and, as the guidance points out, “most reps will know somebody with a common mental health problem”. The guidance says that knowing how to make adjustments in the workplace for staff with such problems can not only benefit a wide range of union members, but also help employers retain valuable and skilled staff.

Produced with consultants Disability Forward, the guidance recommends that unions work with employers to encourage job applicants with mental health issues, as well as encouraging individuals to disclose any mental health problems.

It also recommends ensuring that reps have had training on mental health at work, training “mental health champions” who would have a more thorough knowledge of the issues. These reps would also network with other unions to share good practice, review policies and procedures to ensure they are non-discriminatory and encourage employers to set up a programme where individuals can receive counselling and advice.

TUC general secretary Brendan Barber said that hundreds of thousands of employees “face ignorance, prejudice and stigma because of mental health problems” and that even more cannot get a job “because of employer discrimination, despite being able and willing to work”.