British Energy Group switch on to anti-bullying project

British Energy Group switch on to anti-bullying project

June 2006

 The UK's largest energy generating company, which supplies 20% of the country's electricity, has signed up to join the Dignity at Work Partnership.

 

British Energy, whose main operations support centre is based at Barnwood, Gloucester, has become the latest company to join the world's largest anti-bullying project, as it builds on its commitment to promoting a culture of respect for employees.

 

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

 

Peter Prozesky, Head of Operations at British Energy's Barnwood offices says: "We recognise the seriousness and the consequences bullying in the workplace could have on our staff and ultimately the company, and at British Energy Group we remain committed to fostering our value of respect."

 

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 officer for Gloucester, Christine Starling says: "Bullying is a widespread and serious problem which no business 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."

 

Christine continued: "We are thrilled that British Energy has now joined the Partnership and we're looking forward to their contribution in sharing best practice on addressing workplace bullying."

 

British Energy has more than 5,500 employees in the UK, of who over 1,200 are based in Gloucester. The organisation already has in place a policy on harassment which supports their equal opportunities policy. Peter adds: "Working with Amicus and the Dignity at Work Partnership gives us the opportunity to build on the work we have already done in association with our Equal Opportunities Focus Group (EOFG), and to further incorporate best practice gained through that connection.

 

"At a time when we are committed to enhancing our position as an employer of choice, Dignity at Work embraces principles fundamental to that aim."

 

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