Harassment

Bullying and intimidation are also forms of harassment. Non-verbal conduct,such as the display of certain pictures,"pin ups", emblems,written or electronically transmitted material can also make people feel uncomfortable, can cause offence and can be regarded as a form of harassment.

Harassment may be of a sexual or racial nature, or it may be directed towards someone because of their social or educational background, sexuality, religious belief, political opinion, age, a disability, or some other characteristic. It makes the recipient  feel threatened, humiliated, patronised or that their privacy is being invaded and creates an intimidating working environment. It is defined by the impact upon the recipient, not the intention of the behaviour. It should not be confused with normal social relationships freely entered into and acceptable to all those involved. Harassment can occur in the form of a single event or sustained behaviour, and can interfere with job performance, cause stress, ill health and abseteeism and may be unlawful.