A dispute over the way NHS Tayside handles bullying and harassment of domestic services staff has been resolved.
Domestic service staff members of Unite union had balloted “overwhelmingly” in favour of industrial action amid claims NHS Tayside management were not following the correct procedures regarding bullying and harassment.
Unite members and representatives from NHS Tayside met on Thursday to discuss the issue, and a series of proposals were agreed upon, calling an end to the dispute.
NHS line managers will receive extra training on the importance of following the correct bullying and harassment procedures, and a forum designed to give domestic services staff a louder voice will also be offered a “larger profile”.
Unite regional coordinating officer Dougie Maguire said he hoped the issues were now behind them.
He said: “Our members were happy to accept the proposals, but I think it’s fair to say there is still concern about the way they will be delivered on the ground.
“If NHS managers work with union representatives in the way they’ve promised, then I’d like to hope these problems are behind us.
“However, if they arise again, and management don’t take action, our members have shown how determined they are not to be mistreated.
“I’d like to once again pay tribute to all Unite members who have taken a stand on this issue.
“Standing up to bullying and harassment is never easy — but our members have not allowed individuals to feel isolated and have won clarity on NHS policies that will benefit themselves and all other healthcare workers in Tayside.”
George Doherty, NHS Tayside’s director of human resources and organisational development, said he was pleased a positive outcome had been reached.
He said: “Following a series of discussions held between NHS Tayside and Unite senior officials on concerns expressed by some Domestic Services staff, both parties have confirmed a positive outcome to their meetings.
“All parties believe that by continuing to work together, Unite local officers and NHS Tayside senior managers will positively ensure all staff concerns are fully addressed.”
More than 98% of members balloted had voted in favour of industrial action, in a vote which was taken on October 31.
