Bullying and harassment
Bullying is behaviour that makes someone feel intimidated, offended or undermined, such as being shouted at, humiliated, ignored or unfairly criticised again and again. It can happen face to face, by email or online.
Harassment is unwanted behaviour linked to a protected characteristic, such as race, sex, disability, age or religion, that violates your dignity or creates a hostile environment. Harassment is unlawful under the Equality Act 2010.
Keep a record
Write down what happened, when, where, who was there and how it made you feel. Keep emails and messages. A clear record makes it much easier to raise the issue.
Steps you can take
- If you feel safe to, tell the person their behaviour is unacceptable. Sometimes people don't realise the effect they're having.
- Talk to your manager or HR, or another manager if the problem is your manager.
- Raise a formal grievance if it continues or is serious.
- Get support from your union, your employee assistance programme if you have one, or the Acas helpline on 0300 123 1100.
Sexual harassment
Employers must take reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment of their workers. The Employment Rights Act 2025 is raising this to all reasonable steps, and making employers responsible for harassment by customers and other third parties. Since 6 April 2026, telling your employer about sexual harassment can count as whistleblowing, which gives you extra protection.
Look after yourself
Bullying can affect your health. Talk to your GP if it's affecting your sleep, mood or health, and lean on people you trust.
Common questions
Is bullying against the law?
Bullying itself isn't defined in law, but employers have a duty of care for your health and safety, and harassment linked to a protected characteristic is unlawful.
Can I raise a concern anonymously?
Some employers have anonymous reporting, but a formal grievance usually needs your name so it can be investigated fairly. Acas can also talk it through with you in confidence on 0300 123 1100.
What if I'm bullied by a customer?
Tell your manager. Your employer still has a duty to protect you, and must take reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment, including by customers.
References: Acas, Bullying and harassment at work; GOV.UK, Workplace bullying and harassment.