Insurers have no reason to fear a teacher's successful £47,000 claim for stress-related damages will open the floodgates to further payouts – if they adopt appropriate safeguards.

That is the confident assertion made by insurers Iron Trades, publishers of a workplace guide on the controversial issue.

However, the insurer stressed employers should not be complacent. They should instead be prepared to recognise symptoms of stress among their employees and manage the risk.

"Employers have a simple choice. Respond today to this growing threat or reap the benefit of escalating premiums tomorrow," the company said.

Workplace stress has been highlighted by a string of recent cases involving public sector workers, such as Birmingham housing officer Beverly Lancaster, earlier this year.

Iron Trades said the private sector appeared to have managed the issue better.

The 2025 Insurance Times Awards took place on the evening of Wednesday 3rd December in the iconic Great Room of London’s Grosvenor House.

Hosted by comedian and actor Tom Allen, 34 Gold, 23 Silver and 22 Bronze awards were handed out across an amazing 34 categories recognising brilliance and innovation right across the breadth of UK general insurance.
Many congratulations to all the worthy winners and as always, huge thanks to our sponsors for their support and our judges for their expertise.

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