Investigating the complaint

The investigation should be run by a manager senior to those involved. There should be direct interviews with all the persons involved and any witnesses. HR departments should be involved, to ensure that procedures are followed and employment rights are respected.

Sometimes a panel may carry out the investigation. In cases of harassment, it is good practice to ensure that the panel includes people with an understanding of the particular type of harassment.

In cases that appear to involve serious misconduct, a short period of suspension of the alleged bully/harasser may need to be considered in order to separate the parties while the case is being investigated. Employers should not transfer the person making the complaint unless s/he asks for such a move.