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Stuart Gentle Publisher at Onrec

Beating workplace bullying

Beating workplace bullying ñ specialists urge employer caution after surveys reveal up to 50% of people have suffered persecution from colleagues

Statistics published by Ban Bullying At Work Day this month show that one in four people have been bullied at some point in their working lives, and new research indicates this figure may be as high as one in two.

Employment law specialists mhl support said that the backing being given to the ban bullying at work campaign meant that the issue was being given more attention than ever before, and urged employers to take a close look.
November 7th saw the 4th National Ban Bullying At Work Day, and the organisationís Speak Out survey showed that even though many people have escaped persecution, someone close to them has been subjected to it.

Laurence Begley, sales director of mhl support, said that the company had advised companies throughout the UK on all aspects of employment law and Health & Safety, and that with increasing awareness of bullying, employers should protect themselves against possible action.

Laurence said: ìUnfortunately, bullying at work has always been one of those things that was incredibly difficult to prove. Employees may think they wonít be believed, be unsure of what course of action to take, or fear repercussions - Much the same as school-yard bullying. Those that do confide in someone are often faced with bystander apathy as colleagues keep their heads down to save themselves.

ìBan Bullying At Work Day, working with the Andrea Adams Trust, has heightened awareness of this controversial issue, and surveys are being carried out across the country encouraging individuals and organisations to speak about bullying and understand how it can be resolved.

ìIt is very important that employers protect themselves and their employees from harassment and bullying in the workplace. It is necessary to have policies and procedures in place to deal with any instances and to ensure that all employees are aware of them. All complaints should be taken seriously, investigated and appropriate action taken,î Laurence advised.

ìEqually, management should take responsibility to creact a working environment that is free from harassment and bullying. Failure to do so can result in low moral and poor productivity and individuals may pursue successful