Bullied clergy problem
Workplace bullying of the clergy, by both bishops and parishioners, is “rife”, according to the Unite union. It has set up a hotline for bullied clergy and is dealing with up to 150 cases a year, it has said. The union is lobbying for the law to be changed to offer clergy more protection because, as they are classed as self-employed office-holders, they are exempt from the protection offered by employment law, unable to claim unfair dismissal or seek protection under health and safety laws.
Health and safety grants
A new fund has been set up to enable small and medium-sized businesses to apply for grants of up to £50,000 a year to address health, safety and staff welfare problems. Proposals for the Health Work and Wellbeing Challenge Fund must be for a new project, with bidders able to apply for a grant from £1,000 in each year.
Health and Wellbeing at Work conference 2010
This year’s Health and Wellbeing at Work conference and exhibition will take place at the Birmingham NEC on 9-10 March. The event is aimed at HR and OH professionals, rehabilitation and therapy specialists, disability employment advisers, ergonomists and others responsible for the environment, health and wellbeing of working-age people.
