Everyone deserves to feel safe and respected at work. When that doesn’t happen and you begin to feel targeted by bullying or harassment, it can leave you unsure of what to do next.
Knowing your rights and the steps you can take can make the situation easier to navigate, which is why our team have outlined what to look out for if you feel you are being victimised.
Recognising bullying and harassment
Bullying at work can take many forms. Sometimes it is obvious, such as being constantly criticised, spoken to unfairly in front of colleagues or excluded from meetings.
Other times it can be less visible, like malicious rumours being spread or subtle favouritism that leaves you feeling isolated. Whatever shape it takes, this behaviour is not acceptable.
Harassment is closely linked but is specifically defined in law. Under the Equality Act 2010, if the treatment you are experiencing relates to characteristics such as your age, sex, race, disability, religion, sexual orientation, pregnancy or gender reassignment, it may be classed as harassment.
In these cases, the law provides you with further protection.
Taking the first steps
If you believe you are experiencing bullying or harassment, the first step is to keep a record of what has been happening.
Writing down dates, times, what was said or done and who else was present can help you feel more confident in explaining the situation when the time comes.
It may then help to check your workplace policies. Most employers have clear procedures setting out how complaints should be raised and who you can talk to.
For some people, this might be their manager, but if you do not feel comfortable doing that, you may be able to speak to HR or another senior colleague instead.
Some workplaces even have a named individual whose role is to handle these kinds of concerns.
Raising a concern can feel daunting, but you are not alone. Many people find it helpful to talk it through first with a trusted colleague, a union representative or a professional adviser.
What to expect when you speak up
Once you do raise your concern, your employer has a responsibility to handle it fairly.
They should listen to you respectfully, keep everything confidential, explain what happens next and make sure the issue is investigated properly.
If you have seen someone else being treated badly, you also have the right to raise this and your employer should take it just as seriously.
Bullying and harassment can have a huge impact on your wellbeing and confidence and it should never be ignored.
Speaking up can feel difficult, but by doing so you not only protect yourself, you also help create a workplace where everyone can feel safe and respected.
How Palmers Solicitors can help
If you are facing bullying or harassment at work and are unsure of your rights or the best way forward, our employment law specialists at Palmers Solicitors can provide confidential advice and guidance.
We can help you understand your options, support you through the process and make sure your concerns are taken seriously.
Get in touch with our team today to talk about your situation in confidence.