COUNCIL workers in Pendle will to benefit from a new policy on work-related stress, approved by councillors.

The new procedure aims to identify stress before employees become too ill to work and to look at ways of reducing pressure.

The policy was drawn up in consultation with managers and trade unions.

It identifies steps the council will take to reduce the incidence of stress by identifying the sources, analysing sickness absence and helping employees achieve a positive work-life balance.

It also puts in place a procedure for a phased return to work for any employees absent due to stress.