English only in the workplace

Workers at a Waterstone’s Distribution Centre in Burton upon Trent are petitioning bosses against a new requirement to speak only English during working hours.  They have accused bosses of discrimination and human rights infringements. The policy does not cover breaks, when workers are free to talk in their native languages. 

It is an interesting study in the feelings that can surround a language barrier.  The management claim that the English-speaking workers feel marginalised or isolated.  They also say that if half of the workforce are speaking one language and the other half speaking another, this is divisive and does not aid teamwork. 

My own research shows that English speaking staff don't always adapt their language for colleagues who are proficient - but not fluent - in English.  Maybe the native English speakers really aren't aware of the slang that they use or the fact that they're talking quickly.  This can discourage colleagues who are trying to learn English and use it at work.