Opinion

    Michael Hough

    Supporting mental health at work: actions we need from the Government

    The workplace is one of the main fronts in the battle against mental ill health and the current mental health crisis. Work takes up a significant portion of our day-to-day lives, and being in secure, paid employment at a workplace that values the health of employees makes a hugely positive difference to our mental health.

    By Michael Hough, Mental Health Foundatio on 08 June 2026

    Mike Robinson 3 Med

    Holistic health: the foundations of future prosperity

    Much of today’s debate about economic growth revolves around familiar pressures: economic inactivity, labour shortages, stagnant productivity, and the challenge of remaining competitive in a rapidly shifting global landscape.

    By Mike Robinson FCA, British Safety Council on 04 June 2026

    John Kushnick Pic

    “Claims like these help raise the profile of health and safety”

    How does a personal injury lawsuit differ from a workplace safety investigation? In light of Stephen Fry’s claim over his 2023 stage fall, John Kushnick, legal director at the National Accident Helpline, highlights the key differences between civil and criminal safety law, from the power of a risk assessment to proving contributory negligence.

    By Belinda Liversedge on 03 June 2026

    Manal Azzi ILO

    Psychosocial risks at work: why they must be treated as core occupational safety and health hazards

    For decades, occupational safety and health systems have focused on preventing physical harm at work. This focus has saved lives and significantly reduced workplace accidents. However, one of the most significant sources of harm in today’s workplaces remains under-recognised: psychosocial risks.

    By Manal Azzi, International Labour Organization (ILO) on 03 June 2026

    Emma Tattersdill

    Managing mental health, wellbeing and stress at work: is there an ever-emerging enforcement risk?

    Recent high-profile HSE enforcement action on work-related stress suggests we are beginning to see a shift from guidance to regulatory action, making it essential employers ensure they are adequately managing the causes of stress and poor mental wellbeing at work.

    By Emma Evans, Bexley Beaumont law firm on 02 June 2026

    Tess Headshot

    Flexible working: the right idea, but the wrong remedy

    The Government’s consultation on new flexible working rights closed last month – providing a clearer picture of the mechanism for the Labour Government’s manifesto commitment to deliver flexible working ‘by default’.

    By Tess Lanning, Timewise on 18 May 2026

    Melanie And Lynsey

    Why we need to make PPE Fit For All

    When we talk about personal protective equipment (PPE), we are talking about a worker’s last line of defence. If it fails, the worker is no longer protected from the hazards they face. This is why we say that all workers having PPE that fits their bodies isn’t just a matter of respect, it can quite literally be a matter of life and death.

    By Melanie Bartlett and Lynsey Mann, GMB Union on 12 May 2026

    Kirsteen Sullivan MP

    How do we fix ‘impersonal’ protective equipment?

    Personal protective equipment (PPE) came to widespread public consciousness when it became the final line of defence for not only those in care and health services, but also those in retail, education and visiting your vulnerable nan.

    By Kirsteen Sullivan MP on 05 May 2026

    Mike Robinson 3 Med

    One size fits none: why inclusive safety matters

    Equality and inclusion are often discussed in workplaces as matters of culture or values. In health and safety, they are matters of life and death, health and dignity.

    By Mike Robinson FCA, British Safety Council on 05 May 2026

    Deborah Garlick Henpicked

    Why menstruation support matters at work

    Although forward-thinking organisations are increasingly taking action on menopause awareness and support at work, attention is now turning to menstrual health as the next essential step in building an inclusive, equitable and high-performing workplace.

    By Deborah Garlick, Menstruation Friendly by Henpicked on 30 April 2026