Waste firm investigating allegations staff were bullied

Chesterfield MP Toby Perkins said he was shocked by the allegations

A waste management firm is investigating allegations of bullying, intimidation, racism and homophobia at one of its sites in Derbyshire.

Chesterfield MP Toby Perkins has been contacted by ex-employees at the town's Veolia depot who said they resigned due to the behaviour of some managers.

He wrote to company executives to say he was shocked by what he had heard.

Veolia said it was taking the allegations seriously and was investigating them.

In his letter, Mr Perkins said: "The open racism, homophobia and bullying culture that is alleged has become commonplace at the Chesterfield site was shocking in its severity and was affirmed by several witnesses."

Mr Perkins outlined concerns that young staff members had been bullied and unfairly dismissed.

He said one employee had alleged he had been racially abused by a colleague on a daily basis and was then moved to an earlier shift when he complained to bosses.

'In-depth investigation'

Colin Whyatt, from the GMB union, said he had represented members at Chesterfield Veolia for a number of issues and allegations.

He said: "I am currently involved in an investigation for a serious allegation for one of my members of which I cannot disclose any further details.

"But needless to say, I hope it will not be swept under the carpet."

A Veolia spokesperson said the wellbeing of employees was its "highest priority" and it had robust policies to make sure the working environment was a safe and inclusive place.

They said: "We have many internal and third party channels for all our employees to raise concerns in confidence.

"We do not tolerate behaviour that is inconsistent with our values and we take these allegations seriously.

"As soon as the concerns raised by some team members were brought to our attention, we launched an in-depth investigation."

Veolia said it had also made sure employees were aware of the support available to them.

Chesterfield Borough Council said it was awaiting the outcome of Veolia's investigation

The company has a contract with Chesterfield Borough Council to empty bins.

Councillor Martin Stone, from Chesterfield Borough Council, said: "We expect the managers and staff of all contractors appointed to deliver services on behalf of the council to operate to the same values and high behavioural standards that we expect of the council's own managers and staff.

"We therefore take very seriously any allegations that are made against council contractors."

Mr Stone said he was assured of Veolia's commitment to deal with the allegations.

"It wouldn't be appropriate for the council to comment further pending the outcome of Veolia's internal investigations into these matters of concern," Mr Stone added.

"However, when completed, we will meet with Veolia to restate our expectations of their managers and staff."