Laura Sharman 22 June 2016

Stress levels of council staff reaching ‘breaking point’

Government cuts have led to ‘unprecedented’ pressure and stress for local government workers, according to the results of a new survey.

Unison found three-quarters of council workers said their workload has increased in the past year, with 73% reporting rising levels of stress. Three if five also said they are working longer than their contracted hours.

The survey of 2,000 council workers also found nearly two-thirds of staff think morale has declined in local government in the last 12 months.

Unison’s head of local government, Heather Wakefield: said: ‘Council staff are being worked into the ground because of government cutbacks. ‘If you neglect the people who empty our bins, who support our children and care for our vulnerable relatives then you neglect the services we all depend upon.’

The report – Under Pressure, Underfunded and Undervalued ­­­­– also found 60% of council staff have faced at least one form of abuse such as violence, verbal or physical threats, and bullying or harassment.

SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Highly Specialist Clinical Psychologist

Oxfordshire County Council
£62215 - £72293
How about joining The Clinical Team at Oxfordshire County Council in our new Community Family Clinic initiative? Oxford
Recuriter: Oxfordshire County Council

Traffic Management Officer - WMF2114e

Westmorland and Furness Council
£37,035 - £37,938
Are you an experienced and motivated professional looking to take the next step in your traffic management career? Cumbria / Various
Recuriter: Westmorland and Furness Council

Peripatetic Support Assistant

Wakefield Council
£16,415.00 - £16,675.23 Grade 4, 24.5 hours, Permanent
Are you caring, compassionate, and friendly? Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Wakefield Council

Peripatetic Support Assistant

Wakefield Council
£14,070.00 - £14,293.05 Grade 4, 21 hours, Permanent
Are you caring, compassionate, and friendly? Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Wakefield Council

Recruitment Support Officer

Durham County Council
£25,584 to £27,711 p.a. (Grade 5) pay award pending
We are looking for a Recruitment Support Officer to join our team on a temporary basis until 31 March 2026. In this role, you will provide a comprehe Spennymoor
Recuriter: Durham County Council
Linkedin Banner