AXA signs up to anti-bullying project

AXA signs up to anti-bullying project

27 September 2006

 

One of the UK's most well-known financial services companies has become the latest organisation to join the Dignity at Work Partnership.

 

UK financial services provider AXA, including Bristol-based AXA Sun Life, 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.

 

Becki Robertson, Head of Employee Relations for AXA Sun Life says: "Harassment and bullying are serious issues for any company and as a responsible employer AXA is delighted to join the Dignity at Work project."

 

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 the South West, Laurence Faircloth 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 victims' 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 AXA has now joined the Partnership and we're looking forward to their contribution in sharing best practice on addressing workplace bullying."

 

AXA has more than 11,000 employees in the UK, of who over 2,500 are based in AXA Sun Life at their Bristol office.  AXA's harassment and bullying policy supports a working environment without hostility that allows employees to contribute effectively to the company's goals.

 

Becki 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."

 

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