Toxic workplaces, the not so silent epidemic that claims lives and leaves countless others shattered.
This tragic death was preventable, the loss of Dr Vaish Kumar’s life, and the loss her family and friends will feel is lasting. This headline will move down the website into oblivion, their pain is forever. BBC covered the story here
So what are we going to do about it as a society?
Do we wait until it finally catches up with our friend, or family member, to finally speak up?
Accountability remains elusive in these workplaces. Bullying and abuse pervade these environments unchecked, inflicting deep wounds on individuals who often feel abandoned by the very systems meant to protect them.
The absence of criminalisation perpetuates a culture of impunity, where perpetrators roam freely, leaving victims grappling with feelings of worthlessness and despair, sometimes with tragic consequences.
The workplace is more than just a means of livelihood, it’s a cornerstone of identity, sustenance, and well-being for millions. Yet, the lack of protective legislation renders workers vulnerable to psychological harm and injury, with no recourse for justice or solace.
While Ireland boasts legal safeguards for schools and homes, the absence of similar provisions in workplaces leaves a glaring gap in safeguarding the mental health and dignity of its workforce.
With 2.6 million livelihoods hanging in the balance, and with no protection, it’s vital we rally for legislation that not only protects current workers but also shapes healthier workplace cultures for future generations. As the toll of workplace toxicity mounts, so does the urgency for change.
Advocates argue that laws akin to Coco law for schools and coercive control laws for homes are long overdue in workplaces. Such legislation would not only provide a legal framework for addressing psychological harm and abuse but also serve as a deterrent against future transgressions.
It’s not just about punitive measures, it’s about fostering environments where mutual respect and dignity are non-negotiable. Education plays a pivotal role too, we have covered this on The FEMCAST podcast with Dr Jen Fraser, PhD on our series #TheBulliedBrain, teaching healthy relationship dynamics and defining what constitutes unacceptable behaviour in the workplace are critical steps in creating safer, more nurturing workplaces.
The call for protective laws isn’t just about securing individual rights, it’s about safeguarding the very fabric of society, where the well-being of every worker and their families is prioritised.
Abuse within the workplace often extends its reach into the home, manifesting as domestic abuse and violence. Creating healthier workplaces and fostering a more robust societal framework can significantly mitigate domestic and gender-based violence. The interconnectedness between workplace and domestic abuse is undeniable, an abuser in the workplace is likely to perpetuate abusive behaviours beyond professional settings. By establishing norms of acceptable behaviour and promoting accountability, we can cultivate healthier homes and ultimately, a healthy society. Criminalising such behaviour is vital in reinforcing these standards, accountability is paramount for fostering a healthier society and ensuring that workplace abuse is treated with the seriousness it deserves.
Ireland needs better laws, it’s time. The call for workplace legislation echoes louder than ever, to ensure that no one has to endure the anguish of toxic workplaces, and that every individual can step into their workplace with dignity and respect.
Everyone deserves to feel safe.
If you are experiencing bullying in the workplace please reach out to the following services in Ireland
Workplace Relations Commission here
FLAC – Free Legal Advice Centres here
Samaritans – For help here
Your Mental Health – National office for suicide prevention here
Working Together #Bullied Too Movement here
