Bullying and Harassment (schools)
Everyone has the right to be treated with dignity and respect at work. Bullying and harassment of any kind are in no-one's interest and will not be tolerated at Denbighshire County Council.
Bullying and Harassment at work is unlawful and both the council and the harasser may be liable for such unlawful actions, and be required to pay damages. Bullying and Harassment can reduce the effectiveness of the council by undermining the confidence of employees, creating a threatening environment and increasing sickness absence and labour turnover. Employees have the right to work in an environment free from intimidation.
We recognise the sensitive nature of complaints of harassment and bullying and that employees who are subjected to it are very vulnerable and are often reluctant to complain. They may feel embarrassed or unsure as to how to make a complaint, or concerned that it will be trivialised. They may fear reprisals or may not want attention focused on the situation.
Employees who are subjected to harassment and bullying should not suffer in silence.
Confidential support and assistance can be sought from a number of sources:
- Head Teacher / Line Manager or Chair of Governors;
- A Trade Union Representative;
- HR Representative;
- Occupational Health
An employee may also speak to a friend or colleague, but the council will not be able to guarantee that the matter is kept confidential.
There are two approaches to dealing with complaints of harassment and bullying:
Employees are encouraged to use the informal approach in the first instance.
However, if the employee is unable to do so due to the severity or nature of the harassment/bullying, the formal approach may be used immediately.
Dignity at Work Policy (Schools) (PDF, 1.3MB)