Unite challenges bullying in not-for-profit sector

Unite, the UK's largest trade union, is calling on all not-for-profit employers to help it challenge the unacceptably high levels of
bullying in the not-for-profit sector.

Recent research in the sector by the University of Manchester revealed that 43% of Unite members had experienced bullying in the last two years. This is well above the national average of one in ten.

Rachael Maskell, Unite national officer for community and not-for-profit, said: "Bullying is one of the biggest issues blighting workers in the not-for-profit sector. Unite promotes a zero tolerance approach to bullying and believes the only way for organisations to tackle the issue is by working with employee representatives to find joint ways to challenge workplace bullies and all forms of unacceptable behaviour and the underlying cultures that allows them to thrive."

Over 200 delegates representing both management and trade unions from over 100 not-for-profit organisations are attending the Unite national conference in London today to look at ways to combat bullying.

The union will be publishing a new guide at the conference aimed at reps in sector, offering practical advice on how to deal with members who are being bullied.

Employers in the sector who have already signed up to its Dignity at Work principles include Citizens Advice Bureau, NAAFI, The Children's Society, Arts Council England, WEA South Wales, LHA, RSPCA, and the Community Relations Council. Others are expected to sign up today.

www.amicustheunion.org