| Title |
Dignity at Work |
| Lead officer(s) |
Gareth Napier |
| Telephone number |
|
| Email address |
gareth.napier@east-ayrshire.gov.uk |
| Date summary created |
26 Feb 2026 |
| Date assessment completed |
25 Feb 2026 |
| Summary of policy aims |
The aim of the Policy is to ensure a harmonious working environment where employees treat each other with dignity, respect each other's right to express opinions, and not to bully, harass, victimise or discriminate against another employee through any type of demeaning behaviour. The Policy will allow the Council to respond effectively to employees' complaints concerning bullying, harassment (including sexual harassment), victimisation and discrimination within the workplace and thereby assist the employees to contribute to the delivery of quality services. Key outcome of the Policy is to create a culture of zero tolerance approach to bullying, harassment, victimisation and discrimination. |
| Key issues |
The policy applies to all employees and workers of East Ayrshire Council who are employed on any contractual relationship, training agreement, casual/sessional and bank workers. The Council demands the same standards of conduct from contractors carrying out work for the Council and/or working in Council premises. Those who will benefit directly are those individuals and or groups that fall under the protected characteristics within the Equality Act to ensure they are not being treated less favourably. |
| Summary of involvement with Groups |
Involvement with the employee networks that cover LGBT, Race and Disability. In addition, regular review of Policy during quarterly Equalities Forum, where updates were discussed evaluated and where required recommendations made. Working group involved in benchmarking exercise which significantly contributed to updates within this current review. Consultation with Close the Gap was sought, which is Scotland`s expert policy advocacy organisation working on women`s labour market participation. The policy was discussed as part of our commitment to maintaining EAC Bronze Status (Equally Safe at Work), with a view to attaining Silver status. |
| Key recommendations |
The policy has now been updated to align with current legislative requirements and has far wider scope to create a culture of zero tolerance to all forms of Bullying, harassment (including sexual), victimisation and discrimination within the workplace.
The aim of the Policy is to ensure a harmonious working environment where employees treat each other with dignity, respect each other's right to express opinions, and not to bully, harass, victimise or discriminate against another employee through any type of demeaning behaviour. |