The Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Act 2023 took effect on the 26th October 2024, requiring employers to actively prevent sexual harassment in the workplace. This means businesses must take steps to ensure a safe environment for their workers.
New Guidance from the EHRC
To help employers understand their responsibilities, the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has updated its guidance. This document explains what employers need to do to prevent harassment and how to handle it if it happens. The guidance is available on the EHRC website [Sexual Harassment and Harassment at Work: Technical Guidance] and is designed to support both employers and legal professionals.
Key Points of the Guidance
· It defines harassment, with examples, and explains how it relates to protected characteristics (e.g., gender, race).
· It explains victimisation and employer obligations under the law.
· It highlights the legal duty to prevent harassment, including third-party harassment and issues outside the workplace.
What Employers Should Do
Employers need to be proactive in preventing harassment. Here are some practical steps recommended by the EHRC:
· Create a strong anti-harassment policy: Make sure your policy covers third-party harassment and is communicated to all employees.
· Conduct regular risk assessments: Identify areas where harassment might happen and put measures in place to prevent it.
· Stay engaged with staff: Regularly talk to employees, conduct surveys, and hold exit interviews to spot potential issues.
How RBHR can help
We can provide a variety of documents, including a sexual harassment policy and sample risk assessments, specifically designed to help employers navigate new employment laws with ease. These resources will support compliance and promote a safe, respectful workplace.
We offer comprehensive training for your staff on "Respect in the Workplace" and specialised sessions for managers on handling sexual harassment complaints and conducting risk assessments “Sexual Harassment Awareness for Managers”. Additionally, we can assist in reviewing the effectiveness and impact of the training provided.
Training
Respect in the Workplace Workshop (90 minutes)
This workshop helps employees understand the importance of respect, inclusivity, and positive workplace culture through interactive discussions and case studies.
Key topics include:
· Defining respect and its impact on workplace dynamics
· Recognising and addressing disrespectful behaviour
· Encouraging inclusivity and collaboration
· Strategies for fostering a supportive team environment
Sexual Harassment Awareness for Managers Workshop (2 hours)
This session equips managers with the knowledge and skills to prevent and address sexual harassment in the workplace, focusing on legal responsibilities and effective response strategies.
Key topics include:
· Understanding sexual harassment: definitions and examples
· Legal responsibilities and compliance
· How to handle complaints sensitively and professionally
· Creating a safe and harassment-free workplace environment
Enforcement
The EHRC has the power to take action against employers who do not meet their legal obligations, including increasing compensation in sexual harassment cases.
It is simply not enough for employers to be aware of the new legislation, action is required!
📢If you need advice, contact one of our team on 01935 411191 or email enquiries@rbhr.co.uk for a free initial consultation phone call. 📢
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