Bullying is a widespread and serious problem and one which none of us can afford to ignore.

It can lead to terrible consequences for employees, organisations and the economy as a whole. The Dignity at Work Partnership is the world's largest anti-bullying project, made possible thanks to just under £1million worth of funding from the Department of Trade and Industry.

Backed by Patricia Hewitt, the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, the three-year project will address the problem. In addition to providing guidance for victims of workplace bullying or harassment, together with the premier anti-bullying charity, The Andrea Adams Trust, we are also looking to spur on cultural change. This is not something that can be done with the flick of a switch. Bullying is a widespread yet sensitive problem and the boundaries are often unclear. We believe that partnership, not recrimination, is key. This means working with organisations to research, train, advise and consult management and HR departments.

We want to develop a code of conduct where respect for individuals is regarded as integral to the behaviour of employees and managers. With the help of industry leaders such as British Telecom, BAE Systems, the Chemical Industries Association, Legal and General, Remploy and Royal Mail, we aim to  encourage employee representatives and employers to build cultures in which respect for individuals is regarded as an essential part of the conduct of all those who work in the organisation. The project will also increase awareness and knowledge of "dignity at work" issues, and encourage the development of partnership working in the workplace through the promotion of joint working on dignity at work. 

We are also reviewing success in some of the Nordic countries where anti-bullying legislation is on the statute book. An alliance with Professor Charlotte Rayner and other experts at Portsmouth Business School will allow us to investigate how to combat bullying at work and to produce guidance for employers.

The Dignity at Work Partnership is designed to change working life and ensure that employers and managers develop an environment where bullying is not tolerated, and health, happiness and the bottom line benefit as a result.

Watch this space..............................