What can employees do when most of them complain of work-related stress? Is there a policy that should help them deal with work-related stress?

Employers are actually expected to put up some sort of structure to deal with workplace stress. Otherwise, there's really a high risk of stress-related claims.

Yes, that't true. Employers need to have a stress policy in place, as it is both in its interest and that of its employees.

What does a stress policy typically state?

A stress policy should be a clear policy aimed at minimising the likelihood of work-related stress. The policy should indicate the commitment of the employer to the health and well-being of its employees and should provide them with comfort that consistent procedures will be taken or followed when dealing with stress.

Health and safety legislation imposes a duty of care on the employers. This duty implies that employers whould not harm their workers. And for the organisation to comply with this duty of care, it is expected to perform a regular assessment on the health and safety risks the employees face.

If workers complain of a stressful work environment, do they the right to complain against their employer?

They actually do have the right to complain. I have heard of a case where an employee pursued stress claims against his employer and he was awarded damages totaling £175,000. The court decides whether an employer adheres to a stress policy and determines the employer's liability.

I have heard of a case where the employee, a prison officer, suffered psychiatric problems after he was tasked to dispose of the bodies of prison inmates who committed suicides. The employer argued that it what happened to the prison officer was not foreseeable. However, the court found the employer in breach of its duties to care, because it failed to make sure that the prison officer was offered access to adequate care like counselling.

There have been a lot of instances when management has ignored the obvious signs of stress among its employees. That is why the HSE (Health and Safety Executive) advises employers to regularly consult their workers, hold stress audits and do performance interviews. This way, they can identify problem areas. And once these problem areas are identified, employers should commit to addressing these.