This guide explains what bullying and harassment may look like, what your employer should be doing to prevent it, and the steps you can take if you are experiencing unacceptable behaviour. It also outlines how the BDA can support you throughout the process.
Introduction
Everyone deserves to feel safe, respected and valued at work. Bullying and harassment, including sexual harassment, are unacceptable in any workplace, and your employer has a legal and moral duty to protect you from this behaviour. Bullying can have a serious impact on your confidence, wellbeing and ability to practise safely, so it’s important to take concerns seriously and seek support early.
The BDA Safe Staffing guidance has been designed to inform and support decision-making on safe staffing levels by BDA members, managers, organisations and commissioners. It includes guidance on assessing safe workload and staffing levels in dietetics.
What is bullying and harassment?
Bullying and harassment describe behaviour from an individual or group that is unwanted, inappropriate, and has a negative impact on your wellbeing. Bullying and harassment describe behaviour from an individual or group that is unwanted, inappropriate, and has a negative impact on your wellbeing. There is no single legal definition of bullying, but it is generally understood as behaviour that demeans, excludes, intimidates or undermines someone. It may happen once or it may be a pattern of incidents over time — both can be harmful.