In recent years, prominent social movements such as #MeToo and #TimesUp have laid bare the extent and nature of sexual harassment and how that affects the dynamics within a workplace.
The Labour Party has passed a new employment rights bill that is a testament to the significant improvement in workplace discrimination laws in the UK. Passed in October 2023, this law will come into force on October 26, 2024.
This bill follows a change to the law made by the Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Act. It will require employers to comply with a new duty to take necessary and reasonable steps to protect their workers from sexual harassment. Placing a legal duty on employers to take preventive action and do everything in their power to prevent sexual harassment reflects progress in the protection against workplace sexual harassment.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has published new guidance to support employers in meeting these new legal obligations, some of which include:
- Developing and cascading a robust anti-harassment policy for their workers, including by third parties.
- Performing regular risk assessments to predict where sexual harassment may potentially occur and the steps to prevent it from happening.
- Being proactive about what is happening in the workplace and observant enough to identify any warning signs by engaging with staff through 1-2-1s, surveys, and exit interviews.
- Monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of actions.
This bill allows for the compensation in sexual harassment claims to be raised. This means that if an employment tribunal discovers that an employee has been sexually harassed, it needs to check whether all preventive measures have been taken. If not, the employer can be ordered to pay an additional 25% (maximum) compensation.
How Our Consultancy Can Help
The new requirements place a considerable responsibility on employers to ensure their workplaces are safe and inclusive. However, implementing these measures effectively can be complex and time-consuming. This is where our expertise can make a difference.
As companies adapt to new regulations under the Labour Party’s recent bill on sexual harassment, the Global Diversity Practice (GDP) offers a suite of services tailored to support organisations in meeting both legal requirements and fostering a respectful, inclusive workplace.
We offer:
- Customised Policy Development
We can help you collaborate closely with your leadership team to design policies that not only comply with legal standards but also embody the unique culture of your organisation. Our customised policies ensure that your stance on sexual harassment remains clear, actionable, and aligned with your core values. - Training and Interactive Workshops
We deliver comprehensive training and workshops for leaders and employees at all levels, with a special focus on identifying and preventing sexual harassment. Our sessions are engaging and promote a culture of ‘Respect at Work’ by equipping employees with the knowledge and confidence to maintain a safe workplace. - eLearning Modules on Sexual Harassment
We offer eLearning modules that provide flexible, accessible training for employees in all roles. These modules cover appropriate workplace behaviour and help clarify what constitutes sexual harassment, enabling workers to act respectfully and responsibly. - Risk Assessments and Audits
Through meticulous risk assessments and cultural audits, we can help you identify potential vulnerabilities within your organisation. By diagnosing gaps and high-risk areas, we help your organisation proactively address cultural issues before they escalate. - Guidance on Reporting Mechanisms and Response Strategies
We can work with your organisation to create effective, confidential reporting mechanisms and response strategies. Our approach ensures that employees feel safe when reporting incidents and that management is prepared to handle cases appropriately, fairly, and in line with legal expectations. - Ongoing Monitoring and Evaluation
To support lasting compliance and ensure a safe workplace, we provide ongoing monitoring and evaluation frameworks. We can regularly review your processes and assess their effectiveness to help you foster a respectful workplace culture where all employees feel valued and protected.
By partnering with us, your organisation can not only meet the new legal standards but also foster a culture of respect, safety, and inclusivity—key drivers for productivity and employee retention. Our comprehensive approach can help empower your team to build a workplace where each individual feels valued and protected, laying the foundation for sustainable success and setting the tone for a positive organisational culture.
