Bullying and harassment myth buster
Here are 5 common myths about bullying and harassment that need addressing:
1. It isn’t that common
Wrong - 1 in 4 people have encountered bullying or harassment in the workplace, with the number rising to 34% for women and a 69% for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people. This is a global problem affecting people in every industry.
2. It only happens when you’re in the workplace
Wrong - 2 in 6 people are subjected to bullying outside of the workplace, including online. If another member of staff is subjecting you to any form of unacceptable behaviour in any way, shape or form, it can be reported through Culture Shift.
3. A lot of what people consider harassment and bullying is banter
Wrong - It’s easy to dismiss some behaviour as being part of a fun or jokey culture but the reality is that if it is making you or anyone else feel uncomfortable, unhappy or unsafe, it warrants investigation from the organisation. Reporting it means the behaviour will be analysed and actioned by the HR department.
4. Only women get harassed
Wrong - It is alarming that half of women in the UK have been sexually harassed at work but the problem doesn’t end there. One fifth of men have experienced similar incidents in the workplace, including verbal and physical aggressions. No matter who you are, you deserve an employment experience that is safe, happy and supportive.
(BBC)
5. Bullying only happens to junior members of staff
Wrong - 80% of cases reported to the UK National Workplace Bullying Advice Line are by people aged over 40. Bullying can affect anyone, anywhere. Culture Shift is for everyone and all reports, no matter who makes them, are taken seriously.
Mental health myth buster
1. Only women talk about their work problems
Wrong - While it’s true that women have traditionally been more open about their mental health, 60% of men are comfortable talking about it. Of those that do, many men prefer to confide in a confidant. Culture Shift’s option for anonymity means you can report unacceptable behaviour that is affecting your mental health. But no matter how you choose to report, all reports are treated in the strictest confidence.
(Priory)
2. Mental health issues are rare
Wrong - According to mental health charity Mind, 1 in 4 people experience mental health problems in England. While more than half of UK adults confirmed that their mental health had worsened as a result of the lockdown restrictions. If you are suffering from any form of mental health issue, it’s important to know that support is available.
3. Having a mental health issue is a sign of weakness
Wrong - As the point above illustrates, mental health issues are more common than we often think. You’re not alone, and the first step to getting the support you need is talking about how you’re feeling.
4. Employers don’t care about mental health; they care about getting the job done
Wrong - Earlier this year, 30 leading businesses including Unilever, Barclays, and Santander pledged to prioritise mental health. Businesses are increasingly recognising the importance of helping their employees to feel safe, happy and supported.
5. Admitting mental health issues will lead to therapy or medication
Wrong - Our mental health is complex. There are many different types of issues that can affect us - from anxiety to depression to post-traumatic stress disorder to panic disorders - and there is no single best way to deal with the challenges of mental health. It is often a combination of treatments, specific to the individual, that turn out to be the right support. While it can be scary not knowing what will happen after talking about a mental health issue, it’s important to know that you’re in control of how they are managed.