Dignity at Work

Third Party Anti-Harassment and Bullying Policy

Policy Statement

The purpose of this statement is to make it clear that it is our intent that Sage staff are treated with dignity and respect, free from harassment and bullying by others.

Who is covered by the policy?

This policy covers all staff including temporary employees, contractors and interns. It deals with harassment or bullying which occurs either at work or out of (but connected with) the workplace, such as on business trips or at work-related events or social functions attended by Sage contacts. It covers bullying and harassment by third parties such as clients, customers, suppliers or visitors to our premises. This is absolutely not something we believe to be a common occurrence, but we want to ensure that employees feel supported in the event they do experience this type of behaviour. 

What is harassment?

We consider harassment to be a form of physical, verbal or non-verbal conduct, speech or behaviour which makes someone feel distressed, humiliated or threatened and that has the purpose or effect of violating a person's dignity or creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment for them. It could take place in any setting and be conducted through any form, including electronic communication. A single incident can amount to harassment. 

What is bullying?

We consider bullying to be offensive, intimidating, malicious or insulting conduct, speech or behaviour which makes someone feel vulnerable, upset or threatened. It could take place in any setting and be conducted through any form, including electronic communications. 

If a member of staff is being harassed or bullied

We do not condone the harassment or bullying of our staff by third parties and employees should not feel that they should have to withstand any perceived harassment or bullying just because the individual is a client or customer.

If an employee feels that they are being subjected to unwanted harassment or bullying by a third party, they should inform Sage’s VP Human Resources using the guidance set out in our Dignity at Work policy. Staff should not be concerned that reporting such behaviour will jeopardise client relationships: our primary concern is to ensure that our employees are supported.

In cases of third-party bullying or harassment, we will consider what action may be appropriate to protect and support our staff.  This may include discussing the matter with the third party and taking appropriate sanctions, up to and including termination of contractual relationships. 

We highly value our staff and we will seek to ensure that they are not subjected to treatment which makes them feel uncomfortable.