Selco Builders Warehouse has unveiled an initiative aimed at fostering healthier workplace interactions.
- The “Better Banter” training programme is designed to address bullying and harassment on the shop floor.
- The training will involve 1,000 employees this year, with the remainder next year.
- Selco’s Human Resources Director emphasises maintaining positive communication without curbing banter.
- The programme was developed by Halborns Law in collaboration with the Builders Merchant Federation.
Selco Builders Warehouse has introduced a comprehensive training programme, “Better Banter,” aimed at mitigating bullying and harassment in the workplace. This initiative seeks to differentiate between playful banter and harmful behaviour, addressing external influences such as social media, and providing strategies to manage unacceptable conduct efficiently.
Through a partnership with Halborns Law and the Builders Merchant Federation, Selco is set to involve around 1,000 employees in the training this year, completing the entirety of its nearly 3,000-strong workforce by 2025. This reflects a commitment to continual cultural awareness enhancement within the company.
In a statement, Sally Kerr, Selco’s Human Resources Director, highlighted the significance of strong, consistent policies in promoting inclusivity and diversity. She emphasised that the training is not about curtailing banter, but rather, equipping staff with the necessary tools to facilitate appropriate workplace communication.
Kerr elaborated on the importance of setting the right communicative tone, particularly in a multigenerational workforce, as language and interpersonal dynamics evolve. She expressed optimism that the course would enhance mutual understanding among colleagues, fostering a more cohesive working environment.
The programme’s content, crafted by Halborns Law, delineates the legal frameworks concerning workplace behaviour and harassment. Selco’s internal training team has been coached to deliver this content effectively, ensuring a wide-reaching impact across the company’s operational landscape.
Selco’s commitment to enhancing workplace culture through “Better Banter” training demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to inclusivity and employee interaction.
