There is no specific legislation which deals with bullying or harassment at work,however, several pieces of legislation include these topics.

Organisations are required to have corporate policies relating to harassment, victimisation and bullying.

Employers have a duty of care to employees and a complaint of bullying and harassment which is not addressed could lead to a claim at an employment tribunal of constructive dismissal.

A landmark ruling in 2006 also suggests that employers now have vicarious liability for the the behaviour of employees at work even when the employer has not caused or failed to prevent the offending behaviour.

Legislation that can be used to pursue a claim

• Sex Discrimination Act 1975
• Race Relations Act 1976
• Employment Equality (Religion or Belief) Regulations 2003
• Disability Discrimination Act 1995
• The Employment Equality (Sexual Orientation) Regulations 2003
• Safety at Work Act 1974
• Employment Rights Act 1996
• Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998
• Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992
• Protection from Harassment Act 1997