Use of Language in the Workplace – A Guide

[TrueBlueTerrier]

Letter to Branches





No. 647/2012
Ref: LR/DGN
Date: 28th August 2012




To: All Branches



Dear Colleague

Use of Language in the Workplace – A Guide

The Equal Opportunities Department are aware that a number of Branches are unsure of the policy when members complain that some workers are not always using English in the workplace and similarly, when others complain that they have been prevented from speaking in their mother tongue to their compatriots anywhere in the workplace.

In order to assist reps, the Equal Opportunities Department has produced the attached guide on the law and good practice regarding the use of English in the workplace.

Any queries in relation to this LTB should be directed to my department in the first instance.

Yours sincerely


Linda Roy
Assistant Secretary

Attachment:

[wookie]

Very 'on the fence' guideline. What about the awkward feeling you get when people near you are speaking a language you don't understand? (Are they talking about me? for example..) It can be viewed the same as being in ear shot of someone but they start whispering to each other.

[teesdale]

The shift manager saying in another language over his radio to a manager "that ***** is coming back from her break".

[Tman]

Very 'on the fence' guideline.

When the expression "richness of culture" is used you just know that's how it's going to be.....