Anti-Bulling and Harassment Policy

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Hellenic Cultural Society of Bristol

METHEXIS

Anti-Bullying and Anti-Harassment Policy

Hellenic Cultural Society of Bristol “Methexis” is committed to provide a safe and respectful environment for all individuals involved in its activities, including employees, volunteers, donors, beneficiaries and anyone else associated with the organization.

Bullying and harassment in any form are not tolerated and are contrary to the values of the charity. This policy, based on charity’s Code of Conduct, outlines our commitment to prevent and address bullying and harassment.

This policy applies to all individuals involved in Hellenic Cultural Society of Bristol “Methexis”'s activities, including but not limited to employees, volunteers, donors, beneficiaries, contractors, and visitors.

Definitions

Bullying: Bullying is defined as repeated or not, unreasonable behavior directed towards an individual or group, which creates a risk to health and safety, causes distress, and undermines the dignity of the individual(s) involved. This includes but is Harassment: Harassment is defined as any unwanted conduct that violates an individual's dignity or creates an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating, or offensive environment. This includes, but is not limited to unwelcome verbal, physical, or written conduct related to race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, age, nationality, or any other protected characteristic.

Responsibilities

Board of Trustees: The Board of Directors Trustees is responsible for ensuring that this policy is implemented effectively and that appropriate procedures are in place to address instances of bullying and harassment.

Employees/Contractors/Volunteers: All employees, contractors and volunteers are expected to treat others with respect and to refrain from engaging in any behavior that could be considered bullying or harassment.

Reporting Procedure

Internal Reporting

Individuals who experience or witness bullying or harassment are encouraged to report the incident(s) promptly to the designated officer or chair. Reports can be made verbally or in written form and should include as much detail as possible, including dates, times, locations, individuals involved and any witnesses. Reports will be handled confidentially and investigated promptly and impartially.

External Reporting

If the alleged bullying or harassment involves a member of the management team (such as a board of trustees member, subcommittee board member, or officer in charge etc), individuals may report the incident(s) directly to the Chair of the Board of Trustees or an external ombudsman, if applicable. In cases where the behavior constitutes a criminal offense, individuals are encouraged to report the incident(s) to the appropriate law enforcement authorities.

Investigation and Resolution

Upon receiving a report of bullying or harassment, the organisation is obliged to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the facts of the case. The investigation will be conducted impartially, respecting the rights of all parties involved. If the investigation substantiates the allegations, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken up to/and including termination of employment / termination of volunteering status or termination of membeship.

Support and Protection

Hellenic Cultural Society of Bristol “Methexis” is committed to foster a culture of respect, dignity, and inclusivity. This Anti-Bullying and Anti-Harassment Policy, based on our Code of Conduct, serves as a framework for preventing and addressing bullying and harassment within the organization, ensuring that all individuals can participate in our activities free from feeling any fear or intimidation. All individuals associated with the charity are expected to familiarize themselves with this policy and to uphold its principles through their interactions with others. The organization will take measures to protect individuals from retaliation after reporting bullying or harassment, including confidentiality and anonymity where appropriate.

Data Protection:

Hellenic Cultural Society of Bristol “Methexis” will maintain received records, including details of the complaints, investigation, and resolution. These records will be kept confidential and in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. Records of grievance hearings should be kept confidential and retained in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998 and Hellenic Cultural Society of Bristol “Methexis” GDPR Policy.

Review and Updates

This Anti-Bullying and Anti-Harassment Policy will be reviewed periodically to ensure its effectiveness and compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Updates may be made as necessary to reflect changes in the organization's structure, operations or legal requirements.

For inquiries, please contact:

Organisation name: Hellenic Cultural Society of Bristol “Methexis”

Email : methexis.bristol@gmail.com

Telephone : 07842631873

Adopted by the Board of Trustees of the Hellenic Cultural Society of Bristol Methexis.