From 26 October 2024, you’ll face a new mandatory duty to take reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace under the Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Act 2023.

➡️ What does this mean?

If there is an allegation of sexual harassment in your business, you’ll have to demonstrate that you proactively took ‘all reasonable steps’ to prevent it from happening.

➡️ What does this involve?

• Conducting risk assessments specific to your workplace.
• Implementing clear and updated policies on sexual harassment.
• Providing mandatory training to all staff on identifying and preventing harassment.
• Encouraging a culture of reporting and openness.
• Regularly surveying staff to assess risks and concerns.

➡️ What happens if you don’t act now?

If the case goes to an employment tribunal and you are found to have breached your duty, the compensation awarded could be increased by up to 25%.

You could also find yourself being investigated by the Equality and Human Rights Commission.

➡️ Your next steps

According to The Fawcett Society, a membership charity which campaigns for women’s rights, 40% of women experienced sexual harassment in the workplace in 2023.

These statistics are alarming.  So, you NEED to act now to ensure that you’re taking all reasonable steps and that you are protected if you are taken to an employment tribunal.

We’re here to help you with this and can work with your business to help put these steps in place.

Get in touch for a confidential chat.

#EmploymentLaw #Harassment #SafeWorkplace #BusinessCompliance