Anti-bullying project is the Real Thing at Coca-Cola

Anti-bullying project is the Real Thing at Coca-Cola

16 May 2006

 

One of the UK's most well-known soft drinks manufacturers has become the latest organisation to join the Dignity at Work Partnership.

 

Coca-Cola Enterprises Ltd., with a production factory at Wakefield, has signed up to the world's largest anti-bullying project as the organisation builds on its commitment to promoting a culture of respect for individuals working in the company.

 

The Dignity at Work Partnership, funded by the DTI and trade union Amicus, addresses the serious issue of bullying in the workplace which is estimated to cost the UK economy £1.3 billion a year in sick pay, staff turnover and loss of production.

 

Ian Johnson, Operations Director at the Wakefield factory says: "Employees will always be the key factor in our success, and we are committed to ensuring they experience a dynamic and positive working culture at Coca-Cola Enterprises."

 

The Dignity at Work project is being led by trade union Amicus as it seeks to tackle the growing problem of bullying and harassment in the workplace.  Amicus regional secretary for Yorkshire & Humberside, Graham Goddard says: "Bullying is a widespread and serious problem which none of us can afford to ignore.  The effect on individuals is huge - it can undermine people's confidence and make victim's lives a misery - which all has a serious impact on business development."

 

"We are working with some of the UK's largest employers to eradicate bullying and its root causes.  The aim of the Dignity at Work project is to create a culture in which respect for individuals is regarded as an essential part of the conduct of all those who work in an organisation."

 

"We are thrilled that Coca-Cola Enterprises has now joined the Partnership and we're looking forward to their contribution in sharing best practice on addressing workplace bullying."

 

Coca-Cola Enterprises has more than 4,600 employees in the UK, of who over 500 are based in Wakefield.  The organisation has already made great strides in developing policies on bullying and harassment with training given to every employee on what forms such behaviour can take and how to resolve any issues.  In a bid to address any emerging problems the company also undertakes a twice-yearly employee Engagement Survey to assess if individuals are being bullied by managers and colleagues as well as customers.

 

Ian adds: "We are proud to be part of the Dignity at Work campaign, and are looking forward to sharing our experiences as well as learning from others.

 

"We are delighted to be working in partnership with Amicus to ensure we are providing our employees with the best possible working environment."

 

Graham adds: "Bullying at work is a major barrier to business success and development - organisations in Wakefield and across Great Britain cannot afford to ignore this issue and we urge them to sign up to Amicus' Dignity at Work project."