Discrimination and Bullying in the Workplace

Recognise the Signs of Discrimination or Bullying

First, it’s important to be able to recognise what constitutes discrimination or bullying. These behaviours may include:

• Verbal abuse or name-calling related to your condition.

• Exclusion from team activities or important meetings.

• Unfair treatment in terms of workload, assignments, or performance expectations.

• Mocking or belittling your condition or symptoms.

• Persistent criticism despite meeting work expectations or following instructions.

• Jokes or comments about your condition that create a hostile or uncomfortable work environment.

Keep a Record of Incidents

If you feel you’re being bullied or discriminated against, it’s critical to keep a detailed record of each incident. This will be important if you need to escalate the matter.

• Document the date, time, and location of each incident.

• Write down exactly what was said or done and by whom.

• Include any witnesses who may have observed the situation.

• Note how the incident affected you, such as your emotional response or how it impacted your work.

• This documentation can provide evidence if you need to report the behaviour to HR or take legal action later.

Address the Situation Directly (if you feel safe to do so)

If you feel comfortable and safe doing so, try addressing the situation directly with the person involved. Sometimes, people may not realise they are being hurtful.

• Stay calm and assertive: Use “I” statements, such as “I felt uncomfortable when you said X, because it feels like my condition is being mocked.”

• Be specific about the behaviour that you find unacceptable, but avoid getting emotional or defensive.

• Set boundaries: Let the person know how you would like to be treated moving forward. For example, “I would appreciate it if you could refrain from making jokes about my _______.”

If you don’t feel safe addressing the issue directly, or if you’ve already tried this and it hasn’t helped, it’s important to escalate the situation.

Report the Behaviour to Your Manager or HR

If direct communication with the individual doesn’t resolve the issue, or if you don’t feel comfortable addressing it directly, report the situation to your manager or Human Resources (HR). When doing so:

• Explain clearly what has been happening, how it’s affecting you, and why you believe it’s discrimination or bullying related to your condition.

• Provide the documentation you’ve kept regarding the incidents.

• Request confidentiality if you’re concerned about retaliation.

• Ask for specific outcomes: You might want an investigation into the situation, mediation, or for the person to receive additional training on disability awareness.

HR should take your complaint seriously and investigate the matter. If they don’t, this may be an indication of a deeper problem within the company.

Know Your Rights

• You are protected by law from discrimination and harassment related to your disability.

• Under the Equality Act 2010, employers must provide reasonable adjustments and are prohibited from discriminating against employees based on a disability.

• If you believe that your employer is violating these laws, you may have the right to file a complaint with a government agency or take legal action.

Seek Support from a Trusted Colleague or Union Representative

• If you feel isolated or unsure about how to handle the situation, seek support from a colleague or union representative (if applicable). Sometimes, having a supportive person who can act as a witness or advocate on your behalf can make a difference.

• A trusted colleague can provide advice or even accompany you to meetings with HR.

• A union representative (if you are a member of a union) can help guide you through the process and represent you in any disputes.

Consider Mediation or External Support

If HR or management doesn’t address the issue adequately, you may consider requesting mediation or involving an external third-party service.

• Mediation: A neutral mediator can facilitate a conversation between you and the person involved to resolve the issue.

• External Support Services: Depending on your location, there may be disability advocacy groups, or mental health support organisations that can offer guidance or legal assistance.

File a Formal Complaint

If the situation persists and no adequate resolution has been found internally, you may need to escalate the matter:

• File a formal grievance with HR, using your company’s grievance procedure.

• Contact a relevant external agency. For example, you can contact the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC).

• You might also want to consult a disability lawyer who specialises in workplace discrimination cases for advice on how to proceed.

Take Care of Your Mental Health

Experiencing bullying or discrimination can take a toll on your mental health. Make sure to prioritise self-care during this challenging time:

• Reach out for support: Talking to a therapist, counsellor, or support group can help you process your emotions and cope with stress.

• Practice coping strategies that work for you (e.g., mindfulness, exercise, relaxation techniques).

• Consider taking time off: If the situation becomes too overwhelming, you may need to take sick leave or request accommodations to temporarily reduce your workload or work environment.

Consider Looking for a New Job (If Necessary)

If the bullying or discrimination continues, and you do not see a way forward within the organisation, it may be necessary to consider looking for a new job. No one should have to work in an environment where they feel unsafe or unsupported.

Final Thoughts

Being discriminated against or bullied is not acceptable. It’s important to take steps to protect yourself, whether that’s through documentation, talking to HR, or seeking external support. Stand up for your rights, and don’t hesitate to seek legal or professional advice if the situation doesn’t improve. You deserve to work in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment, where you can contribute your skills without fear of discrimination or harassment.