Management practices come under fire

A new report published by the Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) has revealed the impact new forms of Performance Management have had on workers across Scotland, and in the financial services and telecoms sectors in particular.

The report is generally critical of these practices, and found that they have a significantly negative impact on employees.

It found that the practices are unjustifiable on grounds of employee welfare, decency, dignity and well-being, and also require a great deal of time and commitment on the part of management.

In addition, the study found that the new regimes placed undue pressure on workers, and created stress related issues.

Grahame Smith, STUC General Secretary said: “The management practices described in great detail in this report are totally unacceptable. The sad truth is that far too many people in Scotland encounter fear and intimidation in the workplace on a daily basis; rising incidence of stress and other mental health problems is the inevitable result.”

“This is not only unacceptable on grounds of decency but ultimately unsustainable for businesses and the Scottish economy in general.”