A recent TUC survey of more than 5,000 emplyees revealed that in three quarters of bullying incidents, the perpetrator had been a manager or supervisor.  But managers themselves are often bullied in turn by their bosses.  A UNISON & ACAS survey found that almost half of middle managers have fallen victim at some point.

"The public sector is one of the worst sectors for bullying, especially in the last few years due to the large amount of change, which translates to pressure from above to do more with less," said UNISON national health and safety officer Hope Daley.

"But with more change on the way we can expect even more pressure on managers to do more with less, which means if steps aren't taken cultures that condone bullying and harassment could take hold."

Bullying, and the inability of employers to deal with the problem, accounts for the loss of 18 million working days each year, according to the research.  Victims of bullying often have their confidence so undermined they no longer feel able to do their jobs.  Many feel they have no option but to go off sick, whlile others are forced to find alternative employment.

TUC General Secretary, Brendan Barber said these figures suggest there can be few workplaces in the UK without a resident bully.  "Although bullying can destroy lives and have a damaging effect upon workplace morale, the overwhelming majority of employers seem unable to stop bullies in their tracks," he said.  Employers should be tackling bullying just as they would treat any other workplace hazard.  All workplaces, whatever their size, should have a policy which states that harassment and intimidation is unacceptable and that those who delight in the victimisation of others will be treated severely.  The victims of bullying need to be listened to and supported, not dismissed as workplace whimps".

He said a new Dignity at Work bill, outlawing bullying, would help employers get to grips with this "ugly phenomenon" of 21st century Britain at work.