What individual members can do

The TUC suggests that members who are being bullied or harassed should consider trying to speak to the bully as a first step. “A direct approach is usually best. Tell the person you find their behaviour unacceptable and ask them to stop. This is sometimes all that’s needed. Bullies do not like being confronted, particularly by someone who is calm and civilised.”

The advice continues: “The majority of bullying goes on behind closed doors. So tell a friend or work colleague. You may well find out you are not the only one who has suffered. It is important you do not try to cope on your own.”

Sometimes, however, speaking to the bully is impossible for the victim to contemplate, and nobody should feel obliged to do this.

In any event, anybody suffering from bullying should speak to a union representative in confidence as soon as possible. Unions can also give free legal advice, put victims in touch with support groups and approach the employer or the bully.

If necessary, bullying victims should seek medical help — from the occupational health service, welfare service, or employee assistance programme, or their own GP.

If the incidents are serious or if challenging the bully has not worked (or the victim feels unable to take this step), the formal complaints and/or grievance procedure should be used. Union representatives can advise on this route. Mediation may also be offered. Remember that mediation, where available, must be entirely voluntary. Speak to your rep if mediation is offered. See Chapter 6 for more information about mediation.

In any event, victims of bullying should never go to a meeting related to the complaint without their union representative, a friend or a colleague as a witness.