UNISON’s Violence at Work Charter sets out ten clear standards that employers must meet to help ensure the safety and wellbeing of their workforce. By signing the charter, Exceed Academies Trust commits to strengthening risk assessments, enhancing reporting processes, providing high‑quality training in conflict management, and ensuring clear support pathways for any staff affected by violent or aggressive incidents.

Linda Crowther, UNISON Bradford Branch Secretary, welcomed the Trust’s decision, stating:
“Violence towards any employee is completely unacceptable. I’m delighted Exceed Academies Trust has signed the union’s charter and made clear its commitment to preventing violence at work. Exceed Academies Trust is setting an example for other employers across Bradford to follow and hopefully many more will now sign up.”

The Trust’s own updated Violence at Work Policy, shared with staff and union colleagues prior to the signing, sets out robust procedures for prevention, incident reporting, risk assessment, de‑escalation and post‑incident support. The policy also outlines expectations for responding to aggression from students, parents, visitors, contractors and members of the public, reinforcing the culture that violence is never accepted as part of the job.

Reflecting on the Trust’s commitment, Duncan Jacques CBE, Chief Executive Officer of Exceed Academies Trust, said:
“Our staff deserve to feel safe, respected and protected every single day. Violence of any form, whether physical, verbal or psychological, has no place in our schools or workplaces. By partnering with UNISON and aligning our practices with the Violence at Work Charter, we are reaffirming our absolute commitment to staff wellbeing and safety. We are proud to stand alongside UNISON in championing safer working environments, and ensuring our staff have the support, training and protection they deserve.”

This partnership forms part of the Trust’s wider, long‑term approach to staff wellbeing, recognising that safe, supportive working environments are essential for colleagues to deliver the highest standards of education across all Exceed schools. The Trust will continue collaborating with UNISON and other partners to deepen its practice, strengthen staff confidence, and foster a culture in which safety, dignity and respect are upheld at all times.