Let’s talk – off the record

5/6/2010

Local housing organisation, Magna Housing Group (MHG) has launched a new ‘dignity champions’ scheme

One in four employees nationally believe that they have been victim to some form of bullying or harassment, according to a survey carried out by the University of Manchester.

Local housing organisation, Magna Housing Group (MHG) has launched a new ‘dignity champions’ scheme to tackle any possible issues of this nature. 

Seven members of staff have been trained as dignity champions to offer advice, clarification, support, intervention and signposting regarding any issues of bullying or harassment.

Rosalyn Booton, head of personnel, added, “Whilst we hope there are no cases of bullying, we recognise that any incidents would need to be taken very seriously. This is why we are keen to give staff as many ways as possible of seeking help."

Jason Weston, head of health, safety & facilities, said, “Magna does, of course, already have a process in place for handling such issues via the personnel department.  However, it is our hope and belief that a less formal route, that is still completely confidential, would be a more attractive proposition to staff if they felt they needed it.”

In addition, staff are also able to access an advice and counselling service through HSA Workwell or use the whistleblowing service through the internal auditors.

Properly managing bullying and harassment is important to the business.  Left untreated, it can lead to stress related illnesses which are the number one cause of absence in the workplace. A victim’s productivity will generally be reduced as a result and this can lead to missed deadlines and targets, low morale and damaged reputation.