Bullying at work could soon be stamped out according to a technology company that is offering free online training to combat the problem.

The company is providing three courses to help employees address harassment, hostility and aggression in the workplace.

Bullying is responsible for 30 to 50 per cent of all stress-related illness at work.

Kevin Young, Managing Director of SkillSoft, said: “The issue of bullying at work is a serious matter and the extent of harassment in the workplace appears to be widespread. Even worse, new research emerges constantly which suggests that the problem is escalating.

“This situation has to be addressed, not only to help employees who are at the receiving end of such destructive behaviour, but for the sake of UK productivity, which is adversely affected as a result.”

The free courses will be available until the end of July 2006, and can be accessed at www.skillsoft.com/bullying