Dealing with bullying at work

Bullying isn't just something that happens in the playground. It can also happen at work, and it can make your life a misery. Fight back with our guide to bullying at work.

Jenni and Leanne talk about the impact of bullying at work

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Bullying at work can come in different forms but the impact can be devastating. Jenni and Leanne's experiences reveal the problems that result from bullying.

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"Intense competition for jobs makes workplace bullying more likely"

What is bullying?

Workplace bullying charity The Andrea Adams Trust defines bullying as 'unwanted humiliating offensive behaviour towards an individual or groups of employees.' Bullying can happen face to face, on the phone or via email. This can include:

Deliberately ignoring or excluding a workmate
Spreading rumours
Discrimination or insults based on race, sex, religion, sexual orientation, disability or age
Threatening to sack or constantly criticising employees who are meeting all of the requirements of their job description

Managers, supervisors and others who have a position of power are perhaps the most obvious candidates for the role of the workplace bully. However, bullying can also occur when a group of co-workers tease someone who is new to the job, or when members of a team decide to make things difficult for their boss.

Unfortunately, intense competition for jobs makes workplace bullying more likely. Lyn Witheridge, CEO of the Andrea Adams Trust, explains: "The recession has led to an 'open season' for workplace bullies. People may be fearful for their own jobs and believe that through bullying behaviour they may be able to get rid of anyone who threatens them."

How do I know if I'm being bullied?

It's not always easy to know if you are being bullied. After all, it can be really difficult to get on with absolutely everyone you work with. You may have colleagues who are bossy or demanding. Supervisors might get angry if you don't meet targets or the necessary standards. However, if the criticism is constant or if it focuses more on you as a person than the work you do, then it may have crossed the line into bullying.

Think, too, about how your workmate's actions are making you feel. Are you being physically injured or emotionally hurt? Are you continually being made to feel stupid or incompetent? Do you get put down, no matter how good a job you do? If so, it could be that you're being targeted by a workplace bully

What can I do if I'm being bullied?

You don't have to put up with bullying at work. Sometimes you may be able to talk to the person and ask them to stop – especially if they're not aware of how they're making you feel. However, if you're not comfortable with confronting the bully, or you find that talking doesn't make any difference, see 'What next?' for other actions you can take.

Updated:15/04/2010

Did you know?

A survey carried out in 2008 for the Trades Union Council found that 11% of 18- to 24-year-old respondents had been bullied by managers or co-workers in their current job.

Anti-bullying resource Bully Online has a page explaining why some people are repeatedly bullied – reasons include being popular with your colleagues and excelling at your job!

Mental health charity Mind claims that bullying can have a huge effect on your physical and emotional health, leading to symptoms such as headaches, sleeplessness, depression and lack of interest in sex – which may be all the more reason to get things sorted as soon as possible!

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Talk to someone you trust about what's going on. This might be an HR representative, a counsellor, doctor or trade union official. You can also call the Acas helpline on 0845 7474 747 if you're in England, Scotland or Wales, or the Labour Relations Agency in Northern Ireland on 028 9032 1442.
Start a 'bullying diary' and write down what happens and when, who the other people were, who saw it happen, and any advice you're given.
Ask for a copy your employer's harassment/bullying policy and grievance procedures and follow up with questions about any points you don't understand. Consider making a formal complaint, following the procedures.If the bullying continues or the issue is unresolved, you may wish to take legal action.
A trade union official or your local Citizen's Advice Bureau may be able to advise you further.
If you decide to leave your job because of the bullying, let your employers know what's going on; you may prevent it happening to others in the future.
Dealing with bullying can be very stressful. Don't forget to look after yourself by eating well, getting support from family and friends, and doing things you enjoy outside work.

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