STRESS is one of the key reasons for under-performance at work - but it can be prevented, says new group Training For Performance and Difference.

Management consultants Katie Jones and Elaine Wilson have joined forces to provide free breakfast seminars on stress.

Ms Jones said: "Many employers are now paying the price for lack of performance from stress without even knowing it.

"Companies could easily lose the people that really matter to their business and competitors could gain from their knowledge.

Damages and costs from litigation "are escalating in real terms, not only financially, but in damaged reputations.

"And key staff will not put up with unnecessary stress at work for very long - they know their rights."

The free breakfast seminars are intended to provide an insight into what causes stress at work and also aspects of a 'duty of care' culture.

The seminars are at the Durley Hall Hotel, Bournemouth on Friday and on December 11.