Unite has zero tolerance of discrimination or harassment of working people (More than half of Unite’s female officers bullied or harassed, study finds, 3 October). Where our officers are reporting negative experiences it is categorically not at the hands of fellow Unite employees and officers, but sadly as they go about their duties in the workplace. Our officers often encounter people who face losing their jobs or are working under tremendous stress. This in no way excuses bad behaviour – I state this simply to underscore the vitally important work our officers do to support members in challenging circumstances, and this union’s determination to ensure that they can carry out their role safe in the knowledge that they have Unite’s unequivocal support. Whenever Unite receives any complaints of bullying, harassment or assault we deal with it immediately under our robust procedures – including a recently agreed dignity at work policy. If the matter is serious we would have no hesitation in taking it to the police or supporting our employee in doing so. Women now occupy many of the most senior positions in this union, both official and in our lay structures. Of course, there can and will be further improvements as we consider the report and beyond. Unite will always aim for the highest benchmarks for delivering dignity and equality at work.
Len McCluskey
General secretary, Unite the Union
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