As we mark Bullying Awareness Month this October, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the workplace environment. While bullying prevention often brings to mind schoolyards and classrooms, the reality is that bullying can occur anywhere—including the place we work.
Workplace bullying may look a little different, this can range from verbal abuse, micromanagement, and exclusion to more covert actions like undermining a colleague’s work. The feelings that bullying leaves behind are the same, and left unchecked, this behaviour can have serious consequences on an individual’s well-being, as well as negatively affecting the perception of the company’s culture, and can end with companies at tribunals if behaviours and situations are not dealt with well. Claims for companies neglecting their duty of care, constructive dismissal, through to discrimination are all possible, with hefty monetary awards attached to these if the company is found to be lacking in their management of these situations.
The Importance of Having Up-to-Date Policies
To protect your workforce and foster a healthy, productive environment, it’s essential to have clear, robust anti-bullying policies in place. These policies not only set expectations for employee conduct but also outline the steps to be taken when an issue arises. However, it’s not enough to create a policy once and forget about it.
With the workplace constantly evolving—remote work, new regulations, and a growing awareness of mental health—your policies need to be regularly reviewed and updated to ensure they remain effective.
How KCA People Can Help
This is where we come in and how we can assist Companies to meet their obligations:
- Policy Review and Updates: We’ll assess your existing anti-bullying and harassment policies, ensuring they meet current legal standards and best practices. We recommend a zero tolerance approach. If needed, we’ll help refresh these policies to address any gaps.
- Tailored Solutions: Every company is different, so we’ll work closely with you to develop solutions that reflect your organisation’s unique culture and workforce needs.
- Training and Development: Prevention is key. Do your managers and employees know how to recognise and prevent bullying behaviours? As well as how to handle complaints or grievances effectively?
- Ongoing Support: Policies are only effective if they’re followed. We provide ongoing support to ensure that your team understands and implements your updated policies and can work with business owners and managers to provide HR support and advice to help you navigate situations.
Take Action Today
By taking action you’re not only protecting your employees and company, but also fostering a positive work environment.
At KCA People, we’re here to help you stay ahead. Let’s work together to ensure your company is fully covered and your policies are in line with best practices. Whether you’re looking for a review, an overhaul, or some advice, contact Rachel today.
