There are two main forms of abuse:
harassment and bullying

Generally speaking, harassment is conduct that demeans an individual, whether related to their age, sex, race, disability or religion. Bullying, on the other hand, normally consists of continual nit picking, personal remarks, isolation, offensive, insulting or threatening behaviour.
Both types can be carried out by individuals or groups and can be frightening and miserable for the victim.
They can take the form of personal threats, malicious gossip, ridicule of a person in front of everyone else, barbed threats about job security or unwanted sexual advances such as standing too close or personal contact.
 

Speak out

If this is happening to you then find someone you can talk to about your concerns - it may be a sympathetic line manager or colleague. If you are convinced you are being bullied or harassed then make immediate contact with your UNISON representative who will give you advice and support.

Fight back against the bullies

Speak to a colleague or manager
Keep a written record of abuse
Make a formal complaint and contact your UNISON representative
 

Keep a detailed diary of every incident

Warn the person who is causing the problem to stop otherwise you will take it further. Alternatively, you can get someone or your union representative to do this on your behalf or even write them a letter. Be firm and confident, but not aggressive or confrontational. If it fails to stop then you may decide to make a formal complaint which your union representative will support you throughout.

Note down dates, times, who was involved and what happened as this could be crucial evidence should you decide to make a formal complaint which may lead to an investigation by the employer and if serious enough, could go to a disciplinary hearing or even an employment tribunal.

All NHS Trusts should have a grievance procedure - Locally, we are familiar with these policies and the details of which should be kept in all workplace departments. Notes may also be laid out in your contract of employment. Those in the larger private healthcare sector should be able to find similar policies written by the employer. However, those working for smaller employers may know nothing of policies and procedures. In these circumstances, contact your UNISON representative. Again, advice from a union representative or sympathetic manager can be crucial at this stage.

>See here for an anti-bullying poem sent in by a member

More details and links can be found on our Health & Safety main pages.

See here for Adults behaving like bad behaved children