How to eliminate bullying and harassment in your workplace

Bullying and harassment in the workplace can have devastating consequences, not only for the Employees who are subjected to such behaviour but also for businesses themselves.

In our article, we will explore the critical steps Employers and HR teams can take to eliminate bullying and harassment in the workplace. We highlight the definitions of harassment and bullying, how they impact your Company, the importance of having clear policies, and practical ways to make improvements.

Why not take a read, let’s take a look:

 

 

 As an Employer how should I understand harassment and bullying?

To address workplace bullying and harassment effectively, it is essential to first understand the terms:

 

 

Harassment: harassment refers to any unwanted behaviour, actions, or conduct that create a hostile, intimidating, or offensive work environment. Harassment can be based on various factors, including race, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or any other protected characteristic. It can manifest as verbal abuse, offensive jokes, threats, or even physical assault

Bullying: bullying involves repeated, aggressive, and unfair treatment directed towards an Employee. It may include actions such as humiliation, excessive criticism, isolation, or spreading malicious rumours. While bullying may not always be linked to a protected characteristic, it can lead to serious emotional and psychological harm

 

 

What can the impact be on my Company?

Bullying and harassment can have profound effects on your Company. Understanding how these behaviours impact your organisation is crucial to motivating change. Here are some ways these issues can affect your Company:

 

Decreased Productivity: Employees subjected to bullying and harassment often experience decreased productivity due to the emotional toll it takes on them. This can lead to missed workdays, decreased morale, and a lack of motivation

High Turnover: Employees who face bullying or harassment are more likely to leave their jobs. This can result in increased recruitment and training costs, impacting your bottom line.

Legal Consequences: Failure to address workplace harassment and bullying can lead to legal action against your Company. Discrimination and harassment claims can result in costly tribunals and damage to your Company’s reputation

Negative Workplace Culture: A culture of bullying and harassment can lead to an overall toxic work environment, which may deter talented Employees from joining your Company and diminish your brand image

 

What is the importance of having clear policies?

To eliminate bullying and harassment, Employers and HR teams must implement clear and comprehensive policies. These policies should include:

 

Non-Discrimination Policy: you should create a policy that clearly states that your Company does not tolerate discrimination based on any protected characteristic

Anti-Harassment Policy: you should develop an anti-harassment policy outlining what constitutes harassment, how to report it, and the consequences for offenders

Bullying Prevention Policy: you should include guidelines for preventing and addressing workplace bullying. Make it clear that bullying is not acceptable in your Company

(You can integrate these policies into the one, you can then name: ‘respecting each other’ for example)

Whistle-blower Protection: you should ensure that Employees who report bullying, or harassment are protected from retaliation, and you should have a clearly defined policy in place

Complaint Procedures: you should outline a formal procedure for Employees to report incidents of bullying or harassment, including multiple reporting channels

 

 

As an Employer how should I make improvements?

Creating a safe and inclusive workplace takes more than just policies. Here are some practical steps you can consider to make improvements:

 

Training: you should regularly train Employees and Managers on recognising and preventing harassment and bullying. Make sure everyone understands the policies and reporting procedures

Promote Inclusivity: you should foster an inclusive workplace culture that values diversity and respects differences

Swift Response: you should investigate all complaints promptly and take appropriate action against offenders. This sends a strong message that such behaviour will not be tolerated

Encourage Open Communication: you should create an environment where Employees feel comfortable reporting issues and concerns

Regular Reviews: you should continuously assess your policies and procedures to ensure they remain effective and up-to-date

 

 

In conclusion

Eliminating bullying and harassment in the workplace is not just about following legal requirements; it’s about creating a positive, productive, and inclusive environment for your Employees. By understanding the definitions, recognising the impact on your Company, implementing clear policies, and taking proactive steps to make improvements, you can build a workplace that is free from bullying and harassment, benefiting both your Employees and your Company.

 

 

How can we help?

We are experts dealing with your HR, and Employment Law matters, we can assist you with any type of HR matter, should you need our support you can contact one of our team today and we can assist you; contact us on: 0333 0069489 or email us on: [email protected]

 

 

Disclaimer

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