HARASSMENT and bullying by members of Scotland’s health boards is more widespread than in other public organisations, the Standards Commission has found.
Almost a quarter of health board members say they have experienced “disrespectful conduct”, according to a survey. Poor conduct is also unlikely to be reported, with 43% of respondents saying they would be reluctant to make a complaint about fellow board members.
The findings – from 299 responses to a survey sent to all 127 devolved public bodies in Scotland including national, regional, NHS boards and colleges – said just 25% of female board members are “not at all reluctant” to complain, compared to 41% of male members.
Standards Commission convener Kevin Dunion said: “It is a matter of concern that a minority of members report having experienced or witnessed conduct that could be described as bullying, harassment or being dismissive.”
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