29 July 1999
ACAS in the UK today publishes two advisory leaflets on bullying. Both are entitled Bullying and harassment at work but one is Guidance for employees and the other A guide for managers and employers.
The leaflets are being published in response to the growing interest in the subject. More and more people are using the ACAS Public Enquiry Points to ask questions about bullying at work.
The leaflets look at employers' responsibilities, what can be done to prevent bullying and harassment, what to do when they occur and what aspects are covered by law. There are also very useful sections on where to go for further help and advice. The leaflets will help to ensure that issues are dealt with before they get out of hand and that allegations of bullying and harassment are investigated fairly, promptly and effectively. As ACAS Chairman John Hougham explains, bullying is a complex issue. "Most people think that bullying is easy to identify and can be dealt with quickly. Although some forms of bullying and harassment are apparent enough - such as publicly ridiculing or demeaning someone - some other forms are more subtle - such as spreading malicious rumours - and more difficult to identify. These new leaflets will help clarify what is a growing concern for many people and help improve the quality of working life".
Notes to editors:
1. Bullying and harassment at work - Guidance for employees and Bullying and harassment at work - A guide for managers and employers are both available free of charge to personal callers at ACAS Public Enquiry Points throughout England, Scotland and Wales (they are listed in local telephone directories). They can also be obtained at a cost of £1 (to cover post and packing for up to six leaflets) from ACAS Reader Ltd, PO Box 16, Earl Shilton, Leicester LE9 8ZZ, Tel 01455 852225.
2. The information in Bullying and harassment at work does not claim to be an authoritative statement of the law. Legal considerations must be looked at in the light of the particular circumstances and it may be wise to seek legal advice.
3. ACAS is an independent statutory body, not subject to direction from any Minister as to how it exercises its functions. It is directed by a Council consisting of the ACAS Chairman and employer, trade union and independent members. The ACAS mission is to improve the performance and effectiveness of organisations by providing an independent and impartial service to prevent and resolve disputes and to build harmonious relationships at work.
4. For press enquiries please contact David Mattes, Adrian Wakeling or Mark Pillans, Tel 0171 210 3642 / 3894 / 3679. ACAS Head office: Brandon House, 180 Borough High Street, London SE1 1LW, web site: www.acas.org.uk
ACAS public enquiry points are listed on the links page.
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