Policy statement
We want a safe and respectful workplace for everyone. We do not allow bullying, harassment, discrimination, or exploitation. This policy explains:
- What inappropriate behaviour is
- How to report it
- How we handle it.
When we refer to ‘inappropriate behaviour’, we mean bullying, harassment, discrimination, and exploitation.
Scope
This policy covers the behaviour of employees, representatives, volunteers and partners in the workplaces of The Forster Charity. We have a zero-tolerance approach to bullying, harassment, discrimination or exploitation.
Responsibility
At The Forster Charity, all employees, representatives, volunteers and partners must adhere to our Code of Conduct and uphold a respectful, safe environment. Inappropriate behaviour is not tolerated and must be reported if witnessed or experienced. Everyone is required to acknowledge this policy and complete relevant training. All members of The Forster Charity are expected to lead by example, fostering a safe workplace, and address concerns promptly. Reports should be directed to the CEO and team, who will handle them fairly, confidentially, and in accordance with governance requirements, including potential reporting to the Board or external funders.
Definitions
Bullying
Bullying occurs when a person repeatedly behaves unreasonably towards another, creating a risk to their health and safety. It can take many forms, including:
- Aggressive behaviour, intimidation, or physical violence
- Name-calling, insults, or spreading harmful rumours
- Unreasonable work demands or withholding necessary information
- Excluding someone from work activities or social events
- Abusive messages, emails, or online behaviour
- Undermining a colleague’s work or confidence
Reasonable management actions, such as addressing performance issues or directing work fairly, do not constitute bullying.
Harassment
Harassment is any unwelcome behaviour that offends, humiliates, or intimidates someone, creating a hostile environment. It may be based on personal characteristics such as race, gender, disability, or other protected attributes. Examples include:
- Offensive jokes, comments, or slurs
- Displaying or sharing inappropriate images, posters, or content
- Intrusive questions about someone’s personal life
Sexual harassment includes:
- Unwelcome physical contact, staring, or leering
- Explicit or suggestive messages, jokes, or requests
- Unwanted invitations or pressure for sexual favours
Discrimination
Discrimination occurs when someone is treated unfairly due to their personal characteristics, such as:
- Race, ethnicity, or nationality
- Gender identity or sexuality
- Age, disability, or religion
Discrimination can be direct (e.g., refusing to hire someone due to age) or indirect (e.g., a uniform policy that disadvantages pregnant employees and volunteers). Discrimination is illegal and will not be tolerated.
Exploitation
Exploitation is the misuse of power or trust for personal gain, including financial, professional, or sexual exploitation. Examples include:
- Assigning personal tasks unrelated to work duties
- Underpayment or withholding wages
- Forcing individuals to work in unsafe conditions
- Manipulating or coercing someone into unfair treatment
At The Forster Charity, we are committed to maintaining a safe, fair, and inclusive environment. Any concerns should be reported immediately for confidential support and action.
Reporting a concern
At The Forster Charity, we encourage open and safe reporting of concerns about inappropriate behaviour.
You can report issues in the way that feels most comfortable for you:
(1) Speak directly with the person involved if you feel safe to do so.
(2) Raise concerns with the CEO or one of the Trustees for support
(5) Use our anonymous whistleblowing service to report concerns confidentially.
When reporting inappropriate behaviour at The Forster Charity, please include key details to ensure a thorough and fair review. Your report should cover: the date, time, and location of the incident(s); a description of what happened; the name of the person involved; any witnesses; the impact on you (emotional, physical, or professional); any supporting evidence (e.g., emails, messages, medical records); any previous actions taken; and your desired outcome from the report. Providing as much detail as possible will help ensure appropriate action is taken.
Investigating concerns and outcomes
At The Forster Charity, we take all reports of inappropriate behaviour seriously and ensure a fair and confidential investigation process. When a report is made, we will discuss the best approach with you, considering both informal and formal options. If a formal investigation is required, we will assess the seriousness of the behaviour, its impact, and the safety of others. If necessary, we may involve the police.
Confidentiality is a priority, and only those directly involved will have access to information. We will keep you informed throughout the process, providing updates, timeframes, and a contact person. Investigations will be conducted fairly, ensuring both parties are heard, decisions are fact-based, and independent investigators handle complex cases.
Support will be available for all involved, including access to wellbeing services and the option to have a support person present. We will document all reports, actions taken, and outcomes, ensuring transparency and accountability. If you are not satisfied with the outcome, you have the right to request a review. Where inappropriate behaviour is confirmed, appropriate action will be taken, which may include training, mediation, apologies, or disciplinary measures. Those affected may receive additional support, including counselling or adjustments to their work arrangements.