How to Tackle Bullying And Harassment at Work

Put an end to inappropriate behaviour at work

This is the opening statement of the ACAS' guide for managers and employees on bullying and harassment at work.

However, bullying and harassment can be hard to identify and even harder to stop. This course provides practical, tried and tested approaches to help you put an end to inappropriate behaviour at work.

Bullying and harassment are a significant risk to health and the well-being of your staff. The risk is not only to individual employees, but also to the employer. The liability of employers for bullied employees is extended under the doctrine of vicarious liability if bullying takes place in the course of employment. If an employee is bullied by either fellow employees and/or management, while performing their contract of employment, the employer will be liable for the bully's actions. This course will ensure that all staff are exceeding the standards of behaviour that are now expected.

Potential participants

CEO’s senior, middle and junior managers; supervisors and team leaders; HR and personnel officers, advisers, and managers; equalities advisers and harassment contact officers, trade union officials

This course covers

• Developing an understanding of the nature of workplace bullying and harassment
• The real costs to individuals, their colleagues, the team and the organisation
• The potential causes of bullying and harassment at work.
• The ACAS definitions of bullying and harassment.
• How to identify and challenge potential cases of harassment and bullying
• Organisational, managerial and personal responsibilities and duties
• Management responsibilities when an allegation is made.
• Supporting the individuals involved
• An analysis of the current and emerging legislation and best practice
• Managing the ‘aftermath’ of bullying
• Developing a commitment to mutual respect and dignity at work.
• Useful further reading and websites.

This course can also be delivered over 2 days with greater emphasis on developing an anti-bullying policy and culture.