THE FIGHT AGAINST Bullying in schools and in the workplace is being highlighted this week by regional MSP Rhoda Grant, who set up an anti-bullying website.
Rhoda Grant created the ‘Tobie’ website in 2014 and it has since been highly praised for drawing attention to a continuing issue in Moray and throughout the country – despite positive measures having been taken.
Mrs Grant said: “It is a sad reflection on society that in the 21st century, bullying is rife within the work place as well as at schools, colleges and in other forms of life. The individual who suffers at the hands of bullies is scarred for a very long time if not for life.
“Such behaviour causes mental health issues to the innocent sufferer who is subject to bouts of anxiety, depression, stress, associated illnesses and ultimately absence from work or school.
“Employers have a key role to play in trying to stamp out this antisocial and unacceptable behaviour and as a stepping stone in the right direction, every employer and school or college should make sure they have an anti-bullying policy which all staff are aware of.
“I would like to think that any acts of bullying within the workplace, school or colleges will be viewed seriously and where there is evidence the perpetrator will be subject to due process.
“Of course, it is hard to get people to talk about bullying, but I would plead with anyone who is subjected to this form of cowardly behaviour to speak to someone about it in the first place, whether that be a colleague or a Line Manager or even a parent or guardian.
“I am hopeful that for some my site www.tobie.org.uk will enable sufferers to seek that right advice and guidance, point them in the right direction and hopefully help them with the bully and break away from this unwanted and despicable behaviour.”