The first trade union with a formal branch for judges has yet to receive a response from the lord chief justice on concerns about an allegedly ‘toxic work environment’ within the judiciary that has reportedly left some members feeling suicidal.
GMB wrote to Lord Burnett of Maldon on 26 January, concerned about 'significant' number of judges who had reported bullying and harassment in their courts.
'A significant number of judges have reported feeling suicidal because of treatment at work. I understand this is particularly prevalent on the Midland circuit, where we have many GMB judges seeking advice. A significant factor appears to be largely absent management [operating] outside of required standards with the perception of impunity,' GMB senior organiser Stuart Fegan wrote in January.
Fegan wrote to the lord chief justice again on 8 March expressing disappointment that he had not received a response.
He said: ‘I am sure you are dealing with several competing priorities, but I believe the public would not be able to see a more important priority for a publicly funded body than the welfare of its staff who provide the vital service of operating our justice system. Please can you confirm whether I will receive any response to my attached letter and when?’
The Gazette understands that the lord chief justice will respond in due course.
In January, the judiciary published a ‘statement of expected behaviour’ after research found allegations of ‘bullying, harassment and discrimination’. Judges will also receive training on avoiding inappropriate behaviour.
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