Bullied at work
Question
I started a new job three months ago and have been bullied by my boss ever since. She makes me feel inadequate, stupid and useless. She blames me for her mistakes and takes important documents from my desk, then says I've lost them. She calls me after work, in my lunch break, and on days off - always about trivial things. I've become depressed and can't bear to go into work. I don't feel that I should be forced out of a job. Is there anything I can do?
Answer
The first thing you can do is make a record of the things your boss has been doing. Note the date and time of incidents and, if possible, make a note of anybody else who was around when they happened. This will help you if you decide to take any further action.
If you're in a small company and your boss has no superior it might be difficult to raise a complaint so you might need to decide whether you need to look for alternative employment or not. If, on the other hand, you're in a larger company and your boss has a superior you could make an approach to them about the bullying. Most large companies, and those in the public and not-for-profit sectors, will have an anti-bullying or dignity at work policy that you can use to help make a complaint against your boss.
If you belong to a Trade Union you can contact them for support and advice. Success Unlimited provides information and resources about how to cope with workplace bullying and The Andrea Adams Trust also offers information, advice and help.
If you decide to leave the firm you might not be able to take action for unfair constructive dismissal as you've not worked for the company for a year. However, since bullying can be seen as a health and safety issue, you might be able to go to an Employment Tribunal if you leave. You can get further advice and information about employment tribunals from Acas - they have a helpline you can call on 08457 474747.
In the meantime, if you're feeling low or depressed about this situation you can call SupportLine on 020 8554 9004 for confidential support and advice.
Updated: 12/01/2009
Question answered by CAB
