Bullying is a word we are hearing more often on our helpline - but we do not hear it immediately. The caller will talk about being ignored, overloaded with work, belittled, or shouted at, and it’s only later in their conversation with LawCare that they realise that they are actually being bullied.

Bullying can take many forms, including cyber-bullying. At the back of it is a failure or refusal to recognise or respect the feelings, dignity, needs or wellbeing of a colleague. The HSE website outlines what is expected from employees in its Dignity at Work Policy and notes: ‘Bullying and harassment can have a devastating effect on the health, confidence, morale and performance of those subjected to it.’

“If you have started to dread going in to work or find yourself feeling anxious, sick or even fearful it is possible that you are being bullied,” explains LawCare Coordinator for Ireland, Mary Jackson.

So what can you do?

Perhaps the most important thing to do is to have a chat with someone - a colleague, friend or LawCare. This will help you regain your sense of perspective, and will help you to acknowledge what you are experiencing.

Keep a diary of incidents noting when they occurred and how they affected you.

You could try talking informally to the person who is bullying you, if it feels safe to do so, or else to a manager or supervisor.

See also the LawCare factsheet on bullying.

Bullies are often complex human beings. It is possible that they were bullied and want others to experience what they went through. They may be jealous for some reason, or they may have issues around power. Since bullies are likely to be lacking in empathy, they may not even realise that their behaviour is unacceptable.

LawCare

Lawcare understands the effects of bullying, as a growing number of callers to our helpline now talk about it as an issue. You can call LawCare's free, confidential and independent helpline on 1800 991 801, 365 days a year, 9am-7.30pm weekdays, 10am-4pm weekends and UK bank holidays, or visit www.lawcare.ie.

Law Society eNewsletters

This article originally appeared in the October 2017 Law Society eZine. For more information, and to subscribe, see eNewsletters.