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Work rage!

continued from page 1

What about the victims?
The Institute of Employment Studies recommends two courses of action for employers dealing with the aftermath of violence at work. Firstly, they must aim to ‘diffuse’ situations after trauma. ‘Diffusing’ is the term used generically to describe workers and managers getting together after an incident to discuss and make sense of what has happened. The aim is to learn from past mistakes. Secondly, debriefing also helps victims talk through their experience. This should be done as soon as possible after the event to avoid any long-term distress to employees. Verbal abuse can be just as upsetting as a physical attack and individuals may need time to recover, and (in some cases) specialist counselling.

The Andrea Adams Trust and the Suzy Lamplugh Trust are organisations dedicated to offering counselling and advice on personal safety to people who have endured workplace violence and bullying.

If you're an employee

  • Build self-confidence by keeping fit and acting confident – ask to attend an assertiveness course if your company provides one.
  • Immediately report any physical attack or verbal abuse to your boss, however ‘minor’, preferably in writing. This will be important later if you want to convince your employers that there's a pattern of violence at your workplace.
  • Avoid handling cash alone.
  • Before leaving your workplace ensure that your whereabouts are known. Do not forget to say when you're due back.

    If you’re an employer

  • Assess the risks of violence to staff.
  • Take steps to prevent or minimise violence or protect employees from it.
  • Ensure that when violent attacks do happen, they're recorded, and the victims receive appropriate assistance.
  • Have a clear code of practice:
    • Encourage an open and trusting culture
    • Offer counselling support for all staff
    • Provide suitable management training.


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