In total, 261 people responded to the survey between July and September last year. Among the respondents, it was found that one in two employees previously experienced or are currently experiencing a mental illness, with anxiety and depression the most commonly reported maladies.
Despite positive working relationships overall, the report highlights a lack of trust among colleagues and confidence in hierarchies, leading many to hide issues and seek help outside of work.
When asked about the sorts of changes agents would like to see, a healthy work/life balance, further support/mentoring, training and education were most commonly cited.
Other key insights included:
- Three in four admitted going to work while mentally unwell
- 35 per cent currently experience a mental health issue
- One in two claim their job has negatively affected their family/social life
- 90 per cent like to see more focus on wellbeing in the workplace
The results came from a survey ran by Agents Together, a foundation created to support agents through difficult times. The aim of the report is to highlight the importance of mental wellbeing in the workplace among estate agents and the wider property sector.
In terms of recommendations, Agents Together suggest, among other proposals, more education and training on mental health; liaising with companies on the best way of promoting healthy work/life balance; and creating opportunities for mental health first aiders.
This important report highlights the pressing need for addressing mental health and wellbeing within the property sector.
It is concerning to see so many respondents reporting mental health issues and not feeling that they are supported in the workplace. Agents Together has done important work sourcing views on this crucial topic, now more needs to be done.
The mental wellbeing of agents is a concern for Propertymark and we will continue to support members and the wider profession at this difficult time.
Propertymark mental health resources
We have held some recent webinars on stress management and nurturing your mental health.
Propertymark members have access to our mental health helpline. Our regular magazine Property Professional contains regular articles on mental health, as well as other useful information to help.
Employment and Health & Safety Advisory Service
Principal, Partner or Director (PPD) members can use the Employment Advisory Service to get free quality legal support from WorkNest.
Property Professional magazine
Expect high profile interviews with leading industry figures, market intelligence information, legislation and regulation topics in our fantastic members' magazine.
