Managing stress in the workplace is a complex challenge yet getting it right can deliver real benefits for both employees and the organisation. Effective stress management helps reduce sickness absence, lower staff turnover and recruitment costs, and minimise employee downtime.
Roxel UK, based in Summerfield, Kidderminster, is a leading European company specialising in solid propulsion systems for aerospace and defence applications. Roxel UK employs circa 300 people, bringing together specialist expertise across engineering, manufacturing, research and programme delivery. As a company that is steeped in history and longevity, with a large workforce that continues to grow, it is vital to ensure that staff well-being is prioritised through training, career progression opportunities, health and wellbeing, and, crucially, their mental health. During Stress Awareness Month this April, it is a good opportunity to reflect on what has been achieved as a company and the steps that have been taken to look after our staff – not just in the short-term, but in the long-term too.
Each year, Stress Awareness Month, a campaign set-up by the Stress Management Society, provides an opportunity to reflect on how stress affects individuals and workplaces alike, and to highlight practical ways it can be better understood and managed. The 2026 theme, Be the Change, encourages individuals and organisations to take an active role in creating healthier, more supportive environments.
Managing stress in the workplace has many benefits that are far-reaching for the whole organisation, from people to productivity and performance. Stress management isn’t just a “nice to have” HR initiative; it is directly tied to how well a company functions, retains talent and competes. The companies that treat it seriously tend to outperform those that don’t over the long run.
Here are some of the ways that Roxel have worked towards creating a working environment that is focused on the mental well-being of staff and reducing the risk of stress.
A Company Culture
A people-centred company culture that puts people at the heart of it is an important way in which wellbeing and stress management happen naturally, rather than being bolted on as an afterthought. Our company values of INNOVATION, COMMITMENT, TEAMWORK and TRUST prioritise employee engagement and wellbeing, an ethos that radiates across the business, nurturing professional and personal growth. We are proud of this team spirit.
Dedicated Wellbeing Room
Employee wellbeing is always a priority and initiatives supporting this form an important part of Roxel’s social value strategy. The introduction of a wellbeing room has provided a safe and supportive space for reflection, prayer or personal needs, demonstrating the company’s commitment to supporting employees in all aspects of their lives. This is further supported by mental health first aiders, comprehensive occupational health support, two Employee Assistance Programmes and a Healthcare Cashback Plan which includes a wide range of health benefits.
Roxel demonstrates that it is vital that EAP and mental health resources are actively promoted, not just listed in a handbook.
Investing in People
Roxel UK places significant importance on investing in its people, recognising that employee wellbeing, development and engagement are essential to maintaining a highly skilled workforce in a specialised technical industry.
Roxel Academy, launched in 2025, is a dedicated training facility designed to support structured on-the-job learning, enhance technical capability and encourage professional growth across the organisation. By providing employees with clear training pathways and opportunities for continuous professional development, the Academy helps to reduce stress by building confidence and competence in their roles. This focus on learning and knowledge-sharing fosters a supportive culture that enables individuals to feel assured in what they do, ultimately helping to minimise uncertainty and workplace stress.
Recruitment and Retention
Recruiting and retaining highly skilled employees remains critical for many businesses, particularly at Roxel. Lower staff turnover helps reduce recruitment and training costs, which can be significant. Reducing workplace stress also plays a key role in preventing burnout, one of the leading reasons skilled employees choose to leave.
Organisations that genuinely support employee wellbeing are more attractive to top talent. Roxel is proud to have built a workforce with deep industry knowledge and long-term commitment, with 15% of employees having more than 20 years’ service and 2% over 40 years. This depth of experience provides strong continuity and underpins the highest standards of safety, quality and performance across the business.
Putting people first, providing the tools and resources for them to thrive, will help your business to have a healthy workforce that communicates well, innovates, supports each other and has many individuals who remain committed members of the team for many years to come.
If you would like to find out more about opportunities of working with Roxel UK, please head to our careers page on our website – https://www.roxelgroup.com/en/career-employment-roxel-uk/