Workers who take part in organisational restructuring, regardless of
whether they lose or hold on to their jobs, are 2.5 per cent more
likely to become ill than other workers, according to public sector
union Unison.
The union is urging employers to carry out risk assessments when restructuring, in the wake of a new report supported by the EU Commission, which shows that reorganisation can seriously harm workers’ health.
According to the report, Health in Restructuring, an increase in absence, injuries, accidents, depression and stress-related illnesses caused by restructuring also affects an organisation’s efficiency.
Greg Thomson, Unison’s national development manager, 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 a post. This can be expensive, lonely, and disruptive for the family as a whole.”
The union is calling on employers to follow its five-point action plan to prevent ill health. The plan says:
For more information on the report, click here.
