Bullying and harassment policy template

Overview

[Company Name] is committed to creating and maintaining a work environment in which all employees are treated with dignity and respect. Bullying and harassment of any form are unacceptable and will not be tolerated. The company aims to prevent all forms of inappropriate behaviour and to act promptly and effectively in response to any complaints or incidents.

This policy outlines the organisation’s position on bullying and harassment, defines the types of behaviours that are considered unacceptable, and provides guidance on how issues will be addressed to maintain a safe and inclusive workplace. All employees must adhere to this policy to help foster a positive and respectful environment for everyone.

Scope

This policy applies to all employees, workers, contractors, and job applicants at [Company Name], regardless of position, role, or length of employment.

The policy covers all forms of bullying and harassment in the workplace, including behaviour that occurs in the office, during business trips, at work-related events, and through digital communication channels such as email and social media.

General Principles

Commitment to respectful behaviour

[Company Name] is committed to a workplace where individuals are treated with respect and dignity. Bullying and harassment, whether intentional or unintentional, will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

Definitions of Bullying and Harassment

Bullying refers to repeated, unwanted, and harmful behaviour that creates a hostile environment for the recipient. Examples of bullying include but are not limited to:

• Verbal abuse or offensive comments

• Unfair criticism or undermining of others

• Intimidation or aggressive behaviour

• Exclusion or isolation from work activities

Harassment is any unwanted behaviour that violates a person’s dignity, creates an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating, or offensive environment, or violates their rights. Examples include but are not limited to:

• Sexual harassment, including unwanted advances or comments

• Racial, religious, or gender-based harassment

• Offensive jokes, comments, or gestures

• Inappropriate physical contact or threats of violence

Responsibility of employees and management

• All employees are expected to contribute to a positive, supportive environment and refrain from any form of bullying or harassment.

• Managers and supervisors are responsible for setting a good example, addressing issues promptly, and ensuring that their teams are aware of this policy. They must also provide support to those affected by bullying or harassment and take necessary action when incidents are reported.

• [Training willbe provided to all staff.]

Reporting and resolution

• Employees who believe they have been subjected to bullying or harassment should report the incident to their line manager or HR, either formally or informally, as soon as possible.

  • If the issue involves their manager, employees should report it to an alternative senior manager or HR representative.

• All complaints will be treated seriously, confidentially, and investigated promptly. The company will take appropriate action based on the findings of the investigation.

No retaliation

• The company strictly prohibits retaliation against any employee who raises a concern or participates in an investigation regarding bullying or harassment. Retaliation will be treated as a serious disciplinary matter.

Support for affected employees

• Employees who experience bullying or harassment will be offered support and guidance throughout the process, including assistance in seeking counselling or other services if required.

Disciplinary action

• Any employee found to have engaged in bullying or harassment may face disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment, depending on the severity of the incident.

• Disciplinary actions will follow the procedures outlined in the company's disciplinary policy.

By adhering to this policy, we can create a working environment where all individuals feel safe, valued, and respected.

[Company Name] is dedicated to upholding the principles of equality, fairness, and respect at all levels of the organisation.