Respect in the Workplace

What is a respectful workplace?

We all have the right to be treated with dignity and respect. Respect is one of the foundational pillars for the City of Stratford's Corporate Values and supports our Municipality's commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. A respectful community encourages everyone to behave courteously, be professional, and show the same respect for others as an individual would wish for themselves. The City of Stratford is committed to supporting our citizens, our employees’ and members of Council’s right to engage in an inclusive, safe, and respectful environment.

View the Respectful Workplace Policy here.

Who does this policy apply to?

The Respect in the Workplace Policy applies to all City employees while performing work in the workplace. Volunteers and members of City Council are afforded the same workplace rights and protections while performing authorized work-related activities on behalf of the City in the workplace.

How to Report

All employees can be champions for a respectful workplace by:

• Expressing regard for others – acknowledge that every person brings unique perspectives and knowledge.
• Eliminating bias and discrimination – ensuring the workplace culture is free of harassment, bullying and discrimination, including racism and sexual harassment.
• Ensuring diversity, equity and inclusion - contribute to the workplace culture, where everyone feels safe to fully engage themselves.
• Open and respectful communication – consider how your words, actions and body language or gestures might impact people differently.
• Addressing conflicts in a positive and productive way.

All employees have a duty to report workplace harassment, discrimination or violence to Human Resources as outlined in this policy.

Employees who are aware of or have directly observed conduct that they think contravenes this policy are expected to provide support to the target of the behaviour and encourage those being targeted to report the offending conduct. If that person does not act, observers are asked to bring information forward to any Leader, the Union or Human Resources staff.

To report a Respectful Workplace Incident, please complete this form.

Additional Resources

C.3.17 Public Conduct Policy

H.1.27 Employee Code of Conduct Policy

Code of Conduct – Council, Local Boards, and Committees

C.1.13 Facilities Code of Conduct Policy

H.1.12 Health & Safety Policy

Questions or Concerns?

If you have any questions or concerns about the Code of Conduct, contact Human Resources by calling 519-271-0250 or emailing the Human Resource’s Office.