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Harassment

We are committed to eliminating harassment across North Somerset.

Harassment is defined as any form of unwanted and unwelcome behaviour which may range from mildly unpleasant remarks to physical violence.

There are several types of harassment including the following:

  • Bullying - Does not normally compose a strong physical element but develops from trivial and constant unjustified and unsubstantiated criticism over time
  • Discrimination - Where a victim is treated differently because of their age, disability, gender or race
  • Physical harassment - Comprises following or watching a victim or repeatedly offering them unsolicited contact or gifts
  • Racial harassment - Linked to a victim's colour, race or cultural background
  • Sexual harassment - Linked to a victim's gender or sexual orientation

A number of areas of UK law cover bullying and harassment including the following:

  • Criminal law of assault
  • Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 - Covers intentional harassment for causing another person harassment, alarm or distress by using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour
  • Disability Discrimination Act 1995 - Covers discriminating against someone on disability grounds
  • Race Relations Act 1976 - Covers dismissing an employee or submitting them to any other detriment on racial grounds
  • Sex Discrimination Act 1975 - Covers dismissing an employee or submitting them to any other detriment on grounds of their sex
  • Protection from Harassment Act 1996 - Covers protection from harassment and stalking

If you are a North Somerset Council employee and feel you are being harassed or bullied at work then please contact our Equality and Diversity Team on 01934 634 832.

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