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
- Equality Act 2010
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.
