South West is major stress zone

Heavy workload is a major cause of stress in the region

Workers in the south west of England are facing some of the highest levels of stress in the country.

According to figures released by the TUC, their stress levels are second only to their counterparts in the south east when compared across the UK.

The main causes of stress are said to be heavy workloads, followed by cuts in staff and overall workplace change.

The TUC says stress is now a major health and safety problem in two-thirds of the region's workplaces.

We need to work smarter and slower, not harder, longer and faster

Nigel Costley, TUC

Nigel Costley, south west TUC regional secretary, said workers deserved better.

"Employers should be working in partnership with unions to create a better working environment.

"We need to work smarter and slower, not harder, longer and faster," he added.

Other top concerns in the region's workplaces were repetitive strain injuries; display screen equipment; long hours and 'slips and trips'.

More than 500 safety representatives in the region took part in the national survey, which the TUC conducts every two years.