Have you been
Bullied At Work?

What is Bullying at Work?

Many people experience unpleasant treatment at work at the hands of their managers and fellow colleagues at some time during their working career. Sometimes this activity deeply affects individuals and it can cause them unnecessary stress at work.

There is no true legal definition for bullying, though there are several brief guidelines which are as follows:

• The course of conduct was directed at the Claimant

The bullying must have been towards the actual individual raising the grievance. For example: a manager targeting his or her secretary.

• The bullying occurred on at least two occasions

It must be a recurring event – meaning that it has happened more than once, such as a particular type of unpleasant behaviour.

• An incident must have been officially reported to a superior

The matter has been raised with a line manager or human resources, and has been ignored or a lack of support has been demonstrated.

• A lack of support has been demonstrated

Though it has been officially reported one or more times, an inadequate response or resolution has resulted – or no action has been taken at all.

What is Stress at Work?

Stress at work, or work-related stress, is defined by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) as ‘the adverse reaction people have to excessive pressures or other demands placed on them.’

In its manifestation, stress is not an illness – it is a natural human reaction, but if this reaction is prolonged over a long period of time it can lead to a significant impact on someone’s mental health.

Employers have a legal obligation to take measures to support both the physical and mental wellbeing of staff.