New bid to beat bullying
GLASGOW City Council are to bring in a new policy to curb bullying and harassment amongst workers.
Council employees will now be subject to the new rules, with staff facing dismissal for serious offences violating the policy.
The move comes after a number of high profile sexual harassment cases were reported last year.
A NEW policy to reduce bullying and harassment in the work place is expected to be rolled-out across Glasgow City Council.
Council employees should act in a suitable manner or face disciplinary action including dismissal for serious offences for anyone who violates the policy.
It comes after high profile sexual harassment cases were reported in 2017/18.
A short life working group was convened by councillor Jennifer Layden, city convener for equalities and human rights, to review the council’s bullying and harassment arrangements.
A report was brought before the city administration committee arlier this month to promote the cultural change of the programme.
It states: “Glasgow City Council is committed to creating and maintaining a workplace where all employees are treated with dignity and respect and feel valued for the different skills and abilities they bring to the workplace.
“This is supported by our equal opportunities policy. Harassment, bullying or victimisation of any kind are unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
“The council will take appropriate disciplinary action, including dismissal for serious offences, against any employee who violates this policy.
“This may also include anyone who makes what are found to be malicious claims. It should also be remembered that bullying and harassment can in some circumstances be considered to be a criminal offence, and that any employee found guilty of such could be held personally accountable for their actions under criminal law.”
Harassment is defined as unwanted conduct which has the purpose or effect of violating someone else’s dignity or creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment.
The local authority will ensure that all employees are aware of their bullying and harassment policy and procedures, understand their rights and responsibilities and know where to get information and support if they have any concerns.
The council will provide guidance and training to all employees responsible for dealing with complaints of this nature and monitor the effectiveness of the policy.
Managers will be expected to be aware of working relationships within their teams and respond promptly to any issues or concerns.
They will need to take early action to deal with behaviour that may be construed as harassment or bullying under this policy – even if a complaint hasn’t been made and be supportive of any employees who come to them with concerns about unacceptable behaviour.
Each service has a responsibility to ensure that they record all formal complaints made in accordance with this policy.
Data will be collected on how long it takes to address complaints every three months. A full report can be found on Glasgow City Council’s website.