British business is being applauded for doing more than almost any other country in the world to beat bullying.
According to the Andrea Adams Trust, a global workplace bullying charity, UK Plc has saved £3.42 billion in the last 12 months by taking a stand to combat bullying at work.
The number of UK plc businesses now writing up specific policies and procedures and providing specialist training to deal with workplace bullying has almost doubled from 11 per cent in 2006 to 19 per cent in 2007, says the charity. The City has shown the most progress in its anti-bullying campaigns. With workplace bullying estimated to cost UK plc £18 billion annually, this equates to a total annual saving of £3.42 billion.
The findings are released ahead of ‘Ban Bullying at Work’ day, held on Wednesday 7 November 2007. To mark the day, the Andrea Adams Trust is releasing balloons at the Kensington Roof Gardens, each one carrying a personal message against workplace bullying that have been left by members of the public.
Lyn Witheridge, founder and CEO of the Andrea Adams Trust, said: “I am hugely encouraged that the number of organisations now having the courage to speak out against bullying, and the insidious effect it has on morale and productivity will ensure that 5 million people in Britain take part on the 7 November.”
In related news, HR Zone recently reported on ways to tackle bullying and harassment at work.