What to Do If You’re Being Bullied at Work
Bullying at work can leave you feeling isolated, stressed, and powerless. Whether it’s subtle intimidation, public humiliation, or constant undermining by a colleague or manager, workplace bullying is never acceptable. And while not all bullying is automatically illegal, it can seriously affect your wellbeing — and in many cases, it may lead to legal action. If you’re experiencing bullying at work, here’s what you can do to protect yourself and your position.
1. Recognise the Behaviour for What It Is
Bullying doesn’t always look like shouting or open aggression. It can be much more subtle and sustained over time. Common examples include: being excluded from meetings or social events, repeated criticism or belittling of your work, being set up to fail (e.g. unrealistic deadlines), spreading rumours or gossip, undermining your authority or expertise, or micromanaging in a way that’s controlling or personal. If the behaviour feels targeted, ongoing, and makes your working life miserable, it’s worth treating it seriously.
2. Start Keeping a Record
Document everything. Keep a diary of incidents, including dates, times, who was involved, what happened, and how it affected you. Save any relevant emails, messages, or evidence that shows patterns of behaviour. This record can be crucial later on — whether you raise an internal grievance, need union support, or speak to an employment solicitor.
3. Raise the Issue Informally (If Safe to Do So)
If you feel safe doing so, consider having a calm conversation with the person involved. Sometimes, individuals aren’t aware of how their behaviour is being perceived. A respectful discussion can sometimes resolve the issue without escalation. If direct conversation isn’t an option, you could speak to a trusted manager or HR representative to raise your concerns confidentially.
4. Follow the Company’s Grievance Procedure
If informal steps don’t resolve the issue, the next step is to make a formal complaint through your employer’s grievance procedure. Every employer should have one — usually outlined in your staff handbook or employment contract. When raising a grievance, stick to facts and include supporting evidence. Explain how the bullying is affecting your work and wellbeing. Your employer has a duty to investigate properly and take appropriate steps.
5. Understand Your Legal Rights
While bullying alone isn’t a specific offence under UK employment law, it can overlap with: harassment under the Equality Act 2010 if the bullying is linked to a protected characteristic (e.g. age, race, sex, disability); constructive dismissal if the bullying is so severe that you’re forced to resign; or breach of contract if your employer fails to provide a safe working environment. If you think your case may involve unlawful harassment or constructive dismissal, it’s important to seek legal advice quickly.
6. Don’t Wait — Seek Legal Advice Early
The time limits for making a claim are short. In most employment-related claims, you must begin ACAS Early Conciliation within three months less one day of the last incident. At Pembridge Solicitors, we offer supportive, practical advice for employees facing bullying or harassment at work. We can help you assess your legal options, guide you through the grievance process, and act swiftly if you decide to bring a claim.
Final Thoughts
No one should have to tolerate bullying in the workplace. Whether it’s affecting your confidence, your health, or your ability to do your job, you have options — and legal protections. Don’t suffer in silence. If you’re being bullied at work, speak to Pembridge Solicitors today for clear, confidential advice.
Pembridge Solicitors
Cheltenham, Gloucestershire
0330 900 0377
info@pembridgesolicitors.co.uk
www.pembridgesolicitors.co.uk
