Amicus and the DTI launch the world's largest anti-bullying research
Employers must take a zero tolerance approach to bullying says trade union Amicus, as the findings from the world's largest anti-workplace bullying project are launched today (Monday 2 October 2006).
But in a poll conducted by Amicus, as part of the project, it was found that only 2% of employers took a zero tolerance approach to bullying. 97% of organisations have never quantified the impact of bullying. And 80% of organisations have an anti-bullying policy in place but despite this more than half of those polled still think bullying is an issue in their organisation.
Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, The Rt Hon. Alistair Darling MP, Amicus General Secretary, Derek Simpson and Clive Ansell, Group Strategy Director at BT will reveal the findings of the joint Amicus and DTI, Dignity at Work Partnership research. They are urging businesses to take a zero tolerance approach to bullying in the workplace.
The key findings in the research conducted by Portsmouth University is that organisations who take a zero tolerance approach are the organisations who deal with the problem most effectively.
The Amicus and DTI funded project addresses the serious issue of bullying in the workplace which is estimated to cost UK employers over £2 billion a year in sick pay, staff turnover and loss of production 1. 1 in 10 employees say they have been bullied 2.
The research conducted by Portsmouth University gives a contemporary view of good practice in dealing with bullying and harassment and how the problem is dealt with in the workplace.
The recommendations of the findings include;
The adoption of a zero-tolerance approach
In partnership with unions organisations must encourage consultation with employees on early intervention strategies
Recognition that bullying is an organisational issue rather than simply a problem between individuals
All anti bullying and harassment policies should be clearly set out and communicated along with the business case for doing so.
Organisations should use the term bullying to describe negative behaviours
All managers should be trained in mediation and conflict resolution skills
Managers at the very top should lead by good example and a senior member of management should become 'the anti-bullying champion'
Amicus General Secretary, Derek Simpson said:
"Bullying in the workplace can destroy peoples lives. Our project aims to tackle this problem in partnership with employers by taking a zero tolerance approach to bullying from the outset.
One of the most effective ways of dealing with bullying behaviour is to 'nip it in the bud ' and this often involves dealing with situations informally before situations go too far and real damage is done.
We will be taking these finding to workplaces across the country and we hope employers will join us in spreading dignity in the workplace."
Trade and Industry Secretary, Alistair Darling said:
"Bullying at work is a big problem and employers need to be aware of it. It corrodes employees' self-confidence and self-esteem and leads to a hostile working environment. It's bad for staff and it's bad for business.
"People who feel harassed or victimised can't do their job properly. And businesses that do not tackle bullying suffer from days lost through stress and illness, decreased productivity and damage to their reputation.
"The Dignity At Work report gives businesses and organisations the tools they need to make zero-tolerance of bullying a reality for all workers."
The companies that have signed up to the project include; BT, British Airways, BAE Systems, Legal & General, Royal Mail and Remploy.
Key to the findings is that policies alone will not secure a harassment free working environment. Employees need to be involved in creating and implementing initiatives, which lead to ownership both of the problem and the solution.
ENDS
Contact: Ciaran Naidoo on 07768 931 315 or 0207 420 8931
Notes to editors:
1. Department of Health
2. University of Manchester Institute of Technology
Two Case studies are available for interview. Two women who have been victim to workplace bullying.
Event
On Monday 2 October 2006 there will be an evening reception hosted by the Dignity at Work Partnership and attended by business leaders and trade union representatives.
You are more than welcome to attend:
Venue:
London Aquarium
County Hall
Westminster Bridge Road
London
SE1 7PB
Time:
1830hrs