How Do I Report Bullying When the Person Involved Is My Line Manager?
Raising a Civil Service Bullying Complaint Against Your Manager
Hello,
I believe my line manager has been bullying me through repeated public criticism, hostile messages and threats about my performance. When I challenge an inaccurate point, they say I am unable to accept feedback.
The situation is affecting my confidence and health. Other colleagues have seen some of the behaviour, but I do not know whether they would be willing to become involved.
The normal advice is to raise problems with your line manager, but that is the person causing the problem. I am also worried that making a complaint will lead to more negative feedback, a performance process or damage to my future career.
Who should I approach, what evidence should I collect and how do I report the behaviour without making the situation worse?
Quick Answer
Where the concern is about your line manager, you can usually raise it with their manager, HR, a designated dignity-at-work contact or through the formal complaint or grievance route in your department. Focus on specific conduct, evidence, impact and the outcome you need rather than relying only on the label of bullying.
Read our Civil Service Bullying and Harassment Help guide to choose the safest route and build a focused evidence record.
Need help with your own situation? Visit Get Tailored Advice or browse more questions in Advice.
What I Would Do Before Raising a Bullying Complaint Against My Own Manager
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Continue reading to see how I would organise the incidents, choose the recipient and request practical protection while the complaint is considered.
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