Briefing

“Employers who fail in their duty to protect employees against psychiatric harm may, in therory at least, face prosecution.” A clear and readable review of the law relating to workplace stress has been pressingly needed since the cases of Dr Chris Johnstone, a junior doctor, and Mr John Walker, a social services manager, both of whom succeeded in claiming personal injury damages after illnesses brought on by excessive stress at work. The Institute of Personnel and Development has just published Stress and Employer Liability, giving clear guidance on the new legal framework following these cases, and will be essential reading for all those concerned with employment issues for doctors.