X Close Search

Employers’ Responsibilities

EMPLOYERS’ RESPONSBILITIES FOR CYBERBULLYING

Every employer has a legal duty of care to its employees to deal with harassment in the workplace, and this includes cyberbullying. All employers are responsible for safeguarding your wellbeing and should have policies and procedures in place to this effect. If you need help with a problem relating to cyberbullying at work, explore our Total Access Support section to learn about the various ways we can help.

EMPLOYER CHECK-LIST

Check that your employer has the following policies in place.

  • A policy for bullying and harassment in the workplace including someone you can talk to in confidence.
  • A policy for acceptable use of emails and digital technology including what procedures are in place for employees who break this policy.
  • A Health and Safety policy including procedures for dealing with work-related stress. Has a stress assessment been carried out in your workplace?
  • A Human Resources department that deals with managing company policy, disciplinary procedures, grievances and employment law.

HOW TO DEAL WITH CYBERBULLYING AT WORK

RECORD EVIDENCE OF BULLYING OR HARASSMENT

Keep a record of all incidents of cyberbullying and harassment and store the evidence safely. If you are going to escalate the problem, you might need to demonstrate ‘ongoing harassment’ for legal action.

WRITTEN COMPLAINT

Take your case to your employer through the correct channels, and file a written complaint or grievance. Keep a record of all correspondence with your employer regarding your case, as you may need to consider independent representation. If you are a member of a union, talk to your union representative.

LEGAL ADVICE

If your case is not treated seriously, you haven’t received a satisfactory outcome or the harassment continues, you should seek independent legal advice.

SUPPORT FOR CYBERBULLYING OR HARASSMENT AT WORK

Cyberbullying and harassment can be devastating. Make sure you get practical and emotional support for what you are going through. Visit our Total Access Support section to learn more about the various ways that we can help you with your problem.