Bullying and Harassment Reports at Scottish Parliament
Scottish Parliament staff have reported a total of 84 incidents involving bullying, harassment, and sexual harassment since 2021, according to a recent review.
The Dignity at Work survey recorded 45 allegations of bullying, 25 of harassment, and 14 of sexual harassment. Additionally, a "very small number" of allegations of serious sexual misconduct were reported.
All staff at Holyrood, including those employed by Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs), were invited to participate in the survey. The reports of bullying and harassment were submitted confidentially to the Parliament's Independent Support and Advocacy Service.
The review highlights concerns within a limited number of MSPs' offices, noting reports of inappropriate behaviour and, in a few instances, conduct that may constitute serious sexual misconduct.
Furthermore, the report indicates that staff perceive a "two-tier culture" within the Parliament, where inappropriate behaviour by MSPs is less likely to be addressed effectively.
The allegations involved both female and male staff members and included incidents associated with alcohol consumption and behaviour described as intended to "keep women in their place." Some MSP staff reported being discouraged from raising concerns due to fears that doing so would "harm the party."
Reforms Must Be Swift
In a letter addressed to all MSPs and staff, Parliament's Presiding Officer Alison Johnstone and Chief Executive David McGill expressed their deep concern regarding the findings.
"Our foremost concern is for those affected. Coming forward is never easy, and we are grateful to everyone who took part in this review.
Anyone who raises concerns must be supported and assured that their concerns will be handled with independence, expertise and empathy.
There can, and must, be zero tolerance of inappropriate behaviour."
Johnstone and McGill acknowledged that the vast majority of MSPs and members conduct themselves appropriately but noted a perceived "low confidence in existing processes," which now require reform.
"We must learn from these findings and ensure the necessary reforms are taken forward swiftly, transparently and with care," they stated.
