HC Deb 21 July 2004 vol 424 c327W
Mr. Goodman

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many people haw. left employment in his Department because of(a) anxiety, (b) stress, (c) depression and (d) other mental health reasons in each year since 1997. [175680]

Maria Eagle

Information is not collected on the number of resignations or dismissals from the Department resulting from anxiety, stress, depression, or other mental health reason.

The number of medical retirement certificates issued for mental health reasons over the last four financial years is in the table.

Number of certificates
2000–01 81
2001–02 85
2002–03 64
2003–04 55
Notes: The figures relate only to the number of medical retirement certificates issued. These may not all have resulted in medical retirements taking place. DWP was formed in June 2001. Figures for 2000–01 and April and May 2001 relate to the former Employment Service and Department of Social Security. Figures were not collected prior to April 2000.

The Department is committed to providing a safe working environment for all of its staff and has a range of support in place to help identify and tackle the causes of work related stress, anxiety and depression. This includes both preventative policies, such as the use of the HSE's Management Standards, and policies to help manage those cases that have resulted in individuals taking time off work. For example, an Attendance Management policy, a confidential employee assistance counselling service, and an occupational health provider service who provides advice on medical conditions including mental and behavioural disorders.