Opinion Reflections after two years of Sticks and Stones

As Anti-Bullying Week comes to a close for another year, I have reflected on my work and the Museums Association's commitment to workforce wellbeing, specifically through our work about bullying in the sector.

My lived experience makes this a subject close to my heart, as I have personally been a target of bullying within the sector. While I can't turn back the clock, I can support others to create a culture of care and to support targets of bullying to recognise the symptoms and take action.

Our Sticks and Stones research is part of that support. With over 500 responses, the research highlighted the reality and scale of the issue, ultimately affecting the health and wellbeing of colleagues and talent, contribution and representation within the sector.

Our research showed that:

• 44% of those who were targets of bullying left their organisation, and an additional 11% left the sector entirely.
• 25% of those bullied were bullied as a function of a protected characteristic, with being disabled, female or young cited most frequently.
• The most likely perpetrator (in 53% of cases) is the line manager, but group or reverse bullying was also experienced.
• Very rarely do organisations get it right in how they deal with allegations, investigations and solutions, with over 90% of respondents unsatisfied with the outcome.

As I reflect on the two years since the publication, with instances of bullying still being reported (see our workforce wellbeing research publication next month), it is clear that there is still so much we can do to create a sector with a zero tolerance for bullying:

1. Check our own behaviours for those that create a negative or hostile environment for others – if your behaviours are bullying, intentional, targeted and sustained, stop, seek support and development. We can learn not to be a perpetrator.
2. Look at organisational policies to find out what is in place, and assess their visibility and whether they are being implemented consistently to create a care culture.
3. Be clear in your role as an ally – remaining silent normalises bullying behaviours.
4. Look at the Sticks and Stones research and use the recommendations to identify good practice and opportunities for improvement, to facilitate discussions and demonstrate a clear commitment to anti-bullying.
5. If you feel you are being targeted, seek support, speak up, reach out and trust your instincts.

As well as looking at the research, you can take a look at our Wellbeing Hub for support and guidance.

If you would like to discuss anything further, please contact me at tamsin@museumsassociation.org.

18 November 2022