Workplace Bullying On the Rise, Reports Unison Survey
A study by Unison on the incidents of bullying in the workplace brought to light some unpleasant facts. The number of bullied employees has doubled from the number recorded in 1997. The report shows that of the 7,000 workers who participated in the survey, more than a third have been bullied in the past 6 months.
Bullying is considered to encompass acts like unwarranted criticism, rudeness, intimidation, excessive monitoring of deliverables, and exclusion and non-sharing of vital information. About 80% of respondents said that such acts have affected their mental and physical well being significantly. About a third of these employees have been forced to take leave of absence, or in worst cases, quit their jobs.
What is most alarming is that a massive 91% of the respondents believe that bullying is unavoidable, as the bullies are not chastised or punished in any way.
Dave Prentis, General Secretary of Unison, expressed his shock at the rising incidents of bullying at workplaces. He said that all employees must be treated with respect and should be allowed to continue their jobs with dignity and peace of mind. If bullying is forcing some employees to remain absent or to quit, then it is necessary to check this act immediately and help affected employees get back on their feet.
Prentis reported that a study concluded last week showed that 13.7 million work days are lost each year owing to depression and stress at work caused by bullying. He appealed to HSE to take stern action against employers who do not address this issue proactively.
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