Poll shows broad support for employment reforms
As the King's Speech approaches, the TUC has published new polling which reveals...read more
How to put a stop to bullying in the workplace
Kate Palmer from HR experts Peninsula UK on how employers should ensure they stamp out bullying.
How can employers put a stop to bullying in the workplace? How can they develop and implement a policy that makes their position, and the repercussions of bullying clear?
Sending a clear message
All employees have the right to feel safe and respected in their workplace, so employers need to send a clear message that any type of harassment will be dealt with seriously.
To do this an effective bullying policy must be created and implemented.
Below are the most important things to do when creating and implementing the policy:
- Create a non-exhaustive list of examples of unacceptable behaviour
- Create a procedure for dealing with complaints of a bullying nature, and clearly document the repercussions that will follow.
- Distribute the policy to all employees – make this part of an induction process, so that new staff know what is expected from them the outset.
- Investigate all complaints promptly.
- Take any complaint of bullying seriously, whether made by the target of the behaviour, or a third party with concerns about a team member
- Remain neutral while the investigation takes place, and be sympathetic to both parties.
- If employers conclude that bullying has occurred, they will then need to assess the circumstances and decide on the appropriate disciplinary action, which could range from a verbal or written warning to dismissal in very severe cases.
Taking a hard line against bullying
Treating all complaints consistently and taking a hard line against bullying will encourage confidence and boost morale, which in turn should make the workplace more secure and enjoyable for everyone.
In addition it is worth training managers in the identification of bullying and harassment so that problems can be dealt with quickly, in line with your anti-bullying policy.
*Kate Palmer is Head of Advisory and Equality at at Peninsula which specialises in HR, Employment Law and Health Safety.
Related
The HR implications of the election for working parents
The three traditional main political parties have made promises with significant...read more
