Bully-Free Workplace Initiative Launched in Nova Scotia

The Nova Scotia Government & General Employees Union (NSGEU) recently launched a Bully-Free Workplace Program after more than a year of planning work.

The program provides either a two-hour Bully Awareness program or a more intensive six-hour Bully-Free Workplace interactive workshop to groups of workers and managers.

According to the Canada Safety Council, 75 percent of people who are bullied at work end up leaving their jobs. Bullying reduces worker productivity, increases sick time and leads to a more stressful and less-trustful workplace atmosphere.

“We know bullying exists in workplaces all across the province,” says NSGEU President Joan Jessome. “This program is affordable, accessible and it’s being led by people who have walked the walk.”

The NSGEU is providing trained facilitators and materials to run the program. Topics covered include:

• Strategies employers and managers can use to reduce workplace bullying.
• How to tell the difference between normal managerial activities and bullying.
• How to observe staff for signs of bullying.
• Skills to use to change the dynamics of an unhealthy relationship at work.