After the major news about cases following #MeToo in the entertainment world globally, has this affected companies in UK and Ireland? A recent survey carried out by CIPD UK (197 readers polled from CIPD’s magazine People Management) would imply that there is a definite up-turn in cases as follows:

• 17% of HR professionals say they have seen an increase in complaints from employees over the last 6 months (2^nd half 2018)
• 20% have fired or disciplined someone for harassment in the last 6 months
• 18% have changed policies relating to harassment in the last 6 months
• 16% have introduced new channels or resources for reporting harassment in the last six months; a further 9% plan to in the next 6 months

So what can we do as employers to minimise any risk of cases arising?

• Review your dignity at work policies including Bullying and Harassment, Grievance and Disciplinary and make sure that they are fit for purpose, fit your business and are appropriate
• Do a Dignity at Work training session focusing on your team leaders/managers to ensure that they know how to deal with informal issues early on, and then how to deal with more significant complaints or issues that may arise
• Do a Dignity at Work training session with all other staff – you could include it with other training such as Wellness at Work and/or Health and Safety so you don’t make it such a major issue
• If you are a medium size business, considering training a capable employee to be a go-to person for any potential bullying and harassment. They can give advice and potentially reduce any development of issues
• Undertake an employee pulse survey
• Drive inclusion and diversity as a key company value

We have a team of trained and skilled investigators and consultants who have extensive experience in this area and would be happy to discuss any issue of concern with you. Just email us on info@voltedge.ie or call Ingrid on 01 5252914.

Voltedge Management