A new survey is launching ahead of World Mental Health Day to help take stock of the mental health of Hull’s workforce. The long-term goal of the research is to help reduce work-related stress, and improve mental health and wellbeing at work.
Businesses and employers around the city are urged to complete the survey. Questions look at what mental health support is available within local businesses, how conversations about stress and wellbeing happen at work, how businesses manage work-related stress, barriers to providing support and more.
The survey is led by Hull City Council’s Public Protection Team, which has responsibility for workplace health and safety, along with the Health and Safety Executive.
Improving the management of work-related stress and mental health and wellbeing at work is a priority for the Hull City Council and its partners. In Hull, 6,000 people took time off work for stress, anxiety or depression in 2025. Local research shows 40 per cent of people in the city say their mental health can be negatively affected by work, but nearly half would not feel comfortable speaking to their employer about it.
Cllr Linda Chambers said: “Work is a big part of our lives and can have a huge impact on our level of stress, mental health and wellbeing. How employers support their workforce to manage these issues is vital for workers’ health, recovery and capacity to manage any mental health issues in a way that allows them to continue working.
“We know many employers within the city really care about their workforces. A lot will already be doing the right things, others will have ways they could improve. This isn’t about finding fault or blame; we want to work with businesses and organisations so that they can do better. It isn’t just workers who benefit from improved understanding and support in the workplace. The businesses benefit too, with less time off sick and a culture where employees are comfortable talking about problems, allowing them to be addressed.
“I’d encourage all our local businesses to participate in this survey, so that we as a council can take the right next steps in supporting them to make improvements”.
Employers can complete the survey here: Stress and Wellbeing at Work survey 2026.
For individuals seeking support with mental health, speak to your GP, or contact Hull Mind 01482 240200, or visit heymind.org.uk. You can also get help from NHS Hull Talking Therapies: www.letstalkhull.co.uk. Contact the Samaritans on 116 123 for help with suicidal thoughts, or other mental health problems.