BULLIES MAKING LIFE HELL FOR A THIRD OF WORKERS.

Shocking statistics revealed in a survey released by UNISON reveal a huge problem with workplace bullying.

The figures show that 34 per cent of workers are currently suffering in silence and 73 per cent of these have been bullied before.

Of those who are not currently being bullied, 61 per cent had witnessed it and 45 per cent had been victims in the past.

As a result of the survey, UNISON and Company Magazine are launching a Bully Busters campaign to tackle the lack of legislation.

The campaign is calling for government to revise the current Dignity in the Workplace bill to include an anti-bullying policy, which is enforced by employers.

Shame, anger, loss of self-confidence, depression, insomnia and isolation are among the issues workers say are blighting their lives.

Reasons given for the increase in bullying included the rise in workload, lack of action from employers and increased fear of change during the credit crunch.

Some respondents said they had experienced bullying behaviours, but had not labelled themselves as ‘bullied’.

Dave Prentis, UNISON’s General Secretary, said:

“This shocking survey shows that the bullying and harassment of workers is spiralling out of control.

“Many people do not realise that a drip feed of bullying behaviour can be as devastating as a major incident.

“Serious mental and physical illness is a common result for those being bullied and this can have a damaging effect on these workers for the rest of their lives.  

“Our research has shown that bullying is accepted in many organisations – we need to change this attitude now. 

“The recession has surely added to this problem and the cost to employers, to cover absence and replace trained staff, makes it clear that tackling bullying makes economic sense.

“UNISON is committed to banning the bully, as it is important for workers to know that joining a union, is crucial.” 

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD UNISON ANTI BULLYING POSTER AND PUBLISH ON YOUR WORKPLACE NOTICE BOARD