Happiness in ports continues to improve

This year’s Happiness in Ports Survey reveals that more than half of port people felt supported by their manager, and nearly 60 per cent felt supported by team members and colleagues.

The general happiness rating continues to improve. This year, overall happiness was rated at 63 out of 100, up from 60 last year. The survey also saw a significantly higher number of respondents, demonstrating that interest in mental wellbeing remains strong across the sector.

The survey, now in its sixth year, provides valuable insight into how port workers are feeling and how well they feel their employers are prioritising good mental wellbeing and supportive workplaces.

This year’s survey was completed by over 140 people, up significantly from just under 50 last year. Respectful and friendly co-workers and management, and interesting and varied tasks continue to be two highest areas affecting how fulfilled workers feel about their workplaces. However, workplace culture, job flexibility, and job security have overtaken salary in importance, reinforcing the need for employers to take a holistic approach to workplace support.

Although salary ranks lower among the factors that contribute to port workers’ sense of fulfilment, satisfaction with pay has dropped significantly from 70 last year to just under 60 this year.

Port workers generally continue to report high levels of safety in their workplaces and feel that their employers take workplace safety seriously. An increasing number of respondents say they would reach out to colleagues if struggling with their mental wellbeing, feel able to discuss it with their manager, and feel confident supporting colleagues worried about their wellbeing. This highlights that recent efforts to improve workplace culture, through campaigns such as the PSS Safer Tomorrow campaign, are having a real impact.

Elsewhere in the survey, some port workers continue to report concerns about maintaining their fitness levels due to shift patterns and workload. This word cloud shows some of the barriers to staying fit and healthy identified by survey respondents.

PSS remains committed to working closely with members to strengthen workplace culture, enhance wellbeing support, and address the key challenges highlighted by the survey. Through ongoing initiatives, resources, and open conversations, we aim to build a more supportive and fulfilling working environment across the sector.

We thank all participants for taking part in this year’s survey. With continued collaboration and a sustained focus on wellbeing, we look forward to supporting an even more engaged and satisfied port workforce.