Unacceptable Behaviour in the Workplace

A practical course helping delegates identify, understand and address unacceptable workplace behaviours, including discrimination, harassment, victimisation and microaggressions.

Unacceptable Behaviour in the Workplace Training Course

Unacceptable Behaviour in the Workplace

Unacceptable behaviour in the workplace can cause significant harm to individuals, teams & organisational reputation. Behaviours such as discrimination, harassment, victimisation and microaggressions can lead to increased absence, reduced morale, higher turnover and costly legal claims. This course equips delegates with the knowledge and confidence to identify inappropriate behaviour, understand its impact and take appropriate action. Through practical examples, legal context and reflective discussion, delegates learn how to challenge behaviour safely, support colleagues and uphold professional standards across all sectors.

Unacceptable behaviour often develops gradually through communication issues, workplace pressures or cultural blind spots. When ignored, these behaviours can escalate, creating unsafe environments and exposing employers to reputational and legal risk. This course supports delegates to recognise early signs, understand legal responsibilities and respond effectively to concerns. It is suitable for managers, supervisors, HR professionals, business owners, employee representatives and individuals seeking to strengthen their professional practice.

Scenario 1: Inappropriate Comments

A colleague makes repeated remarks that others find offensive or undermining.

  • Recognising unacceptable language
  • Understanding impact on staff
Scenario 2: Exclusion & Marginalisation

A team member is consistently left out of discussions or opportunities.

  • Spotting microaggressions
  • Preventing discriminatory patterns
Scenario 3: Retaliatory Behaviour

A colleague experiences negative treatment after raising a concern or complaint.

  • Understanding victimisation
  • Protecting complainants

Unacceptable behaviour can arise from stress, frustration, cultural misunderstandings or unconscious bias. Reflection helps delegates explore how behaviour is perceived, how communication styles influence interactions and how workplace culture shapes expectations. By examining real examples, delegates gain insight into how inappropriate behaviour escalates, how harm occurs and how early intervention can prevent further issues. This reflective space encourages individuals to consider their own responses, professional boundaries and responsibilities when addressing behaviour. It also highlights the importance of fairness, consistency and empathy when supporting colleagues or handling complaints. Through guided reflection, delegates develop confidence in recognising unacceptable behaviour, challenging it safely and contributing to a respectful, inclusive and legally compliant workplace.

Understanding Unacceptable Behaviour
  • Unlawful & inappropriate behaviour
  • Definitions & examples
  • Legal responsibilities
Recognising Impact
  • Effects on individuals
  • Effects on organisational culture
  • Absence, morale & turnover
Responding to Behaviour
  • Handling complaints
  • Appropriate action steps
  • Barriers to intervention
Managing Behaviour Effectively
  • Behaviour management strategies
  • Communication tools
  • Supporting positive change

Course Content

  • What constitutes unacceptable & unlawful behaviour
  • Current legislation & case law
  • Definitions of inappropriate behaviours
  • Recognising organisational & individual impact
  • How to deal with unacceptable behaviour & complaints
  • Barriers to addressing behaviour
  • Zoom delivery: half-day session with certificate

Course Structure and Cost

All our courses are tailored to ensure the training reflects your organisation’s goals and priorities.

Delivery Options

The course can be delivered face to face or online, via Zoom or Teams.

Delegate Numbers
  • Online sessions: maximum of 15 delegates
  • Face-to-face sessions: recommended maximum of 20 delegates

Course Fees

  • £595 for a half-day session
  • £895 for a full-day session
  • Two half-day sessions delivered on the same day are charged at the full-day rate

Please note: the half-day rate is not always available for face-to-face sessions.

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