The timeline for a second internal investigation at Chimo Community Services into complaints about bullying and harassment has been extended by three weeks.
The Richmond News learned the investigation was originally supposed to be completed in early May, but will now wrap up at the end of the month.
The News reported in early March how a WorkSafeBC claim of bullying and harassment at Chimo was approved causing one employee to go on long-term leave last summer.
Chimo runs Nova House, a Richmond shelter for women who are leaving domestic abuse, among other services.
Chimo receives funding from the provincial and federal governments, including BC Housing.
BC Housing told the News, in a statement, that it has “zero tolerance for bullying and harassment in the workplace.”
“We welcome the independent investigation launched by Chimo Community Services into allegations of bullying and harassment within its organization,” the statement reads. “Results of the investigation will be shared with BC Housing to inform next steps.”
Another investigation was done at Chimo in 2019.
WorkSafeBC recently released statistics on bullying and harassment in B.C., saying they received 3,400 enquiries in 2021, and responded to 931 specific complaints. Of the 931 bullying and harassment complaints, WorkSafeBC said 44 came from Richmond.
Bullying and harassment in the workplace can take many forms, WorkSafeBC noted. For example it might include verbal aggression, personal attacks and other intimidating or humiliating behaviours.
Moreover, it can take place between workers, workers and management or workers and customers, clients and other members of the public.
