The HSE Work-related stress scale was developed and tested alongside the Work-related Quality of Life scale (WRQoL scale - also included in the Bounce platform) by Portsmouth University. The survey is recognised by the Department For Education's Staff Wellbeing Charter, a declaration of support for, and set of commitments to, the wellbeing and mental health of everyone working in education.
The survey consists of 35 items that ask about 'working conditions' known to be potential causes of work related stress. It provides feedback on the seven stressor categories included in the UK Health and Safety Executive's Management Standards:
The Management Standards Approach recommends that the HSE Management Standards Indicator should be used to gather annual feedback. The analysis of results can help school leaders to understand the current situation in their setting. This is a great starting point for working with employees to improve health, well-being and performance.
The HSE Management Standards Indicator Tool is a survey that helps schools to identify areas where improvements are needed in managing work-related stress. The survey asks questions about six primary stressors that can affect staff well-being:
The survey provides a numerical score for each of these primary stressors, as well as an overall score for the school. The scores range from 1 (poor) to 5 (desirable). The scores can be used to identify areas where improvements are needed and to track progress over time. The scores can also be compared to national benchmarks to see how the school compares to others in the education sector.
The scoring of the survey will tell you how well your school is performing in managing work-related stress. The scores can be used to identify areas where improvements are needed and to track progress over time. The scores can also be compared to national benchmarks to see how your school compares to others in the same and previous academic year.
The scores can be used to identify areas where improvements are needed in managing work-related stress. For example, if the scores for the "Demands" primary stressor are low, this may indicate that staff are feeling overwhelmed by their workload. The school can then take steps to address this issue, such as providing additional resources or support to staff.
The scores can also be used to track progress over time. By conducting the survey periodically, schools can see whether their scores have improved or declined and take steps to address any issues that arise.
Schools can use the results of the HSE Management Standards Indicator Tool in several ways:
Overall, the results of the HSE Management Standards Indicator Tool can be used by schools to improve the well-being of staff, which can lead to a more positive working environment and improved student outcomes.
The HSE Management Standards Indicator Tool can be a valuable resource for schools in managing work-related stress. By using this tool, schools can gain insight into how well they are managing work-related stress and identify areas where improvements are needed. This can help schools to create a more positive working environment for staff, which can lead to improved staff morale and reduced absenteeism.
The survey can also be used to track progress over time and compare the school's scores to national benchmarks. This can help schools to identify areas where they are performing well and areas where improvements are needed. By communicating the results of the survey with staff, schools can build trust and improve staff morale.
Overall, the HSE Management Standards Indicator Tool can be a useful tool for schools to improve the well-being of staff and create a positive working environment. By taking steps to manage work-related stress, schools can improve staff morale, reduce absenteeism, and improve student outcomes.
HSE Management Standards Indicator Tool takes about 15 minutes to complete. The questionnaire consists of 35 items relating to the six primary stressors identified in the Management Standards approach to tackling work-related stress. The questions are based on the best available evidence linking work design to health outcomes.