UK employers struggle with workplace misconduct and toxic behavior

New research from Acas and WorkNest highlights significant challenges regarding employee conduct and toxic behavior in British workplaces.

A survey commissioned by Acas and conducted by YouGov found that the most common reasons for disciplinary action include failure to show up for work (34%), theft (30%), bullying (30%), rudeness to colleagues or customers (30%), and taking sick leave when not genuinely ill (27%). In response, Acas has launched a consultation to update its Code of Practice on disciplinary and grievance procedures, which has not been fully revised since 2009. The goal is to encourage earlier, informal resolutions to minimize costs and stress.

Separately, research from WorkNest involving over 1,000 organizations indicates that efforts to curb toxic behavior often fail to produce permanent results. Only 6% of employers reported lasting improvement after addressing such issues, while 45% noted that employees temporarily improve before reverting to old habits. Common disruptive behaviors identified include persistent negativity (59%) and undermining management or colleagues (35%). WorkNest identified a lack of manager confidence (49%) as a primary barrier to effectively challenging these behaviors.