Dignity at work statement

This statement is for everyone within HSE, and applies to all members of staff including contractors, agency staff and anyone engaged to carry out work on HSE’s behalf. It sets out what behaviours are expected when dealing with each other and members of the public. We need to listen to, value and respect each other as individuals with a contribution to make to ensure that HSE achieves its aims.

Legislation

HSE are committed to providing equal opportunities for all, irrespective of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race (this includes ethnic or national origins, colour and nationality), religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation or working patterns.

HSE’s HR Guidance reflects our HR policies and practices and the Civil Service Management Code and builds on statutory obligations under national and European law, including the Equality Act 2010.

Discrimination, harassment, bullying and victimisation

HSE will not tolerate any form of unfair, discriminatory behaviour, nor harassment, bullying or victimisation by anyone. These are serious matters and the consequences of such behaviour adversely affect performance and morale. They may lead to disciplinary proceedings as well as financial and other penalties, for the member of staff responsible, as well as for HSE as a public body.  HSE’s 'Resolving Problems guidance' explains how such issues will be dealt with.

HSE’s responsibility

HSE has a responsibility under equality legislation to protect our staff from harassment by third parties (stakeholders and other external contacts). HSE will take all reasonable actions to ensure people are aware of this Dignity at Work statement, and take action in response to incidents of unacceptable behaviour towards our staff.

Your responsibility as a Manager

Managers at every level are responsible for ensuring that they and their staff understand their responsibilities, that the equality and diversity policies are upheld in their area, and for ensuring fairness and impartiality in all aspects of managing staff and the work of HSE.

Your responsibility as a member of staff

It is important for everyone to recognise and accept individual responsibility for equality and diversity within HSE. This includes our dealings with others outside of HSE, to ensure that our actions and words demonstrate and deliver dignity and respect for all.

Human Resources responsibility

HR are responsible for internal equality and diversity policy and related guidance within HSE. They also support managers and staff on equality and diversity issues.

External diversity responsibilities

HSE’s Cross Cutting Interventions Directorate have responsibility for diversity and equality as it impacts on HSE’s external work with stakeholders, including input to the organisation’s Single Equality scheme and ensuring external facing policies are assessed for any adverse equality impact. 

Contacts for advice and support

Members of staff who feel they have been affected by discrimination, harassment, bullying or victimisation can seek confidential advice and support from:

• their line manager;
• HR by contacting the HR Service Centre;
• HSL’s HR Business Partner;
• HSE’s Employee Assistance Provider or
• their Trade Union representative.

HSE’s staff diversity networks may also be able to suggest useful sources of support and guidance.