081/22 Unacceptable Behaviour
Updated 29 February 2024
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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/esf-action-notes-2014-to-2020-programme/08122-unacceptable-behaviour
| Date Issued | 11/05/2022 |
| Review Date | 31/12/2023 |
Who should read
This Action Note is to all ESF beneficiary organisations (CFOs and Grant Recipients)
Purpose
Recently the Managing Authority (MA) has identified several incidents of inappropriate language and behaviour towards its staff from individuals representing beneficiary organisations. The MA would like to make beneficiary organisations aware of the DWP Policy that supports its staff and is asking organisations to make all project staff aware of the content of this Action Note.
Background
Mutual trust is the foundation of the relationship between DWP and its customers. DWP has a diversity and equality policy which ensures all staff and customers must feel that they are valued, respected and treated fairly. They should work in an environment where negative and unwanted behaviours are challenged. DWP has a zero tolerance approach to bullying, harassment and discrimination. We are committed to treating you in a fair and polite manner and in return we expect you to treat us in the same way.
Action
All beneficiary organisations to ensure all of their staff are aware that:
- all incidents of inappropriate language and behaviour towards DWP staff will be recorded and escalated to an ESF senior leader
- the incident will be considered and appropriate action taken following DWP policy regarding bullying, harassment and discrimination of its staff
- in exceptional cases DWP has the right to invoke Paragraph 11 of the ESF Funding Agreement ‘Events Of Default, Material Breach And Rights Reserved For Breach Of The Funding Agreement’