Should my employer have a policy on bullying and, if so, what should it cover?

Employers do not have to have a specific policy on bullying, but as it has increasingly become a work place issue, many employers have devised policies for dealing with bullying.

The essential features of such a policy should:

• make clear the type of behaviour that will not be tolerated
• show how to make an informal and formal complaint
• have a clear procedure for investigating allegations
• allow you to be represented in making your complaint
• identify the disciplinary action that could be taken against individuals who are bullying others
• ensure total employee confidentiality