As part of our overall commitment to the equality of opportunity and valuing diversity, as an organisation we are fully committed to promoting a harmonious and supportive working environment, where every employee is treated with consideration, respect and dignity.
Harassment and bullying are in direct opposition to our aims and values, which include our commitment to treat people with courtesy, dignity and respect and to embrace difference, diversity and fairness. Harassment and bullying in any form can have a detrimental impact on working lives by adversely affecting the health, morale and performance of those affected by it, including those who witness it.
Similarly, we do not tolerate acts of violence, aggression, harassment or abuse towards staff and professionals who work in, or provide services to, the NHS. We consider the safety of all staff of paramount importance and are committed to providing, as far as is reasonably practicable, safe environments and systems of work for all staff whilst you are performing their duties. We do not expect staff to subject themselves to, or be exposed to, any unnecessary risks or to cope alone with potential or actual violent situations.
We will do all that is reasonable and practicable to prevent and protect all staff from any form of violence at work and to equip them, as far as possible, to deal with any incidents that do arise. We will ensure that all complaints of violence are taken seriously and that there are procedures in place for managers and staff that help them to deal with potential or actual violent situations.
Procedures are also available at both informal and formal levels to deal with complaints and disputes relating to bullying and harassment, including an option for mediation. Support for those involved in or affected by bullying and harassment is also available and a robust monitoring system for cases of bullying and harassment is in place.
In addition, a number of Trust employees have been appointed and trained as Freedom to Speak Up and wellbeing champions as an independent and confidential resource to offer support to staff to help with emotional and physical wellbeing or concerns.