Middle grade civil servants were able to pinpoint their enjoyment of specific work tasks. Working structures which encourage teamwork and co-operative working arrangements are appreciated as is an understanding for some that their work is of value for example. Dissatisfactions at work included: staffing structures experienced as too many bosses; a high departmental workload; cuts and the damage to services; structural changes; problems with performance appraisal; insufficient promotion chances; and poor social relations with colleagues or supervisors. Many dislike workplace change; some believe that experience is valued less than it once was. Mitigating features can include those aspects of work from which they gain satisfaction. Along with coping strategies, additional issues raised concern about the particular context; valued work; social support, co-operation, and collective action; and leading a balanced life. Involvement in outside activities and through this achieving a work-life balance was an especially prominent feature of this middle grade group, something valued highly by respondents and understood by them as beneficial to their psychological health.