Public and Commercial Services Union

You should not feel you have to suffer in silence or feel that you are in any way to blame if you are experiencing bullying. Your employer should take the issue seriously and should have procedures you can use to challenge bullying behaviour.

If you think you are being bullied (or subjected to harassment), you should:

Talk to your union rep as soon as possible.

Keep a written record of any incidents, including the facts, i.e. time, date and details, the names of any witnesses, your response and your feelings.

Consider making it clear to the bully that you find their behaviour unacceptable. You can do this in person or in writing and you can take a representative with you for support or to act as a witness if necessary later.

Talk to colleagues; find out whether you are the only person being bullied or whether anyone else is affected in the same way. A group complaint might carry more weight, and support from colleagues is important in challenging bullying behaviour.

Keep copies of any appraisals, letters, or memos that are relevant.

Make sure you know what your job description is, to see whether the responsibility you are given matches it.

If your workplace has harassment contact officers consider getting in touch for an impartial discussion of the situation you are in.

Check whether your employer has a policy on bullying or on harassment.

If necessary seek medical help. If you have an occupational health service, consider going to see them.

If your employer provides a welfare service or an employee assistance programme, consider contacting them.

Find out your employer’s grievance procedure.

Consider making a complaint. You might need to do this if the incidents are serious or if challenging the bully has not worked. Your rep can advise you.

Keep your PCS rep informed of any developments.