TUC Demands Employer Action On Sexual Harassment In The Workplace

The recent spate of sexual harassment allegations is empowering more and more women to come forward and report their experiences of unwanted and inappropriate sexual behaviour in the office.

Under the Equalities Act 2010, employers have a duty to take all reasonable steps to prevent employees from harassing one another. This includes sexual harassment inside and outside the office at work-related social events.

Employees who have been sexually harassed can go to the Employment Tribunal, which, unlike for unfair dismissal, can award unlimited compensation for any loss of earnings connected with the harassment should they find in the employee's favour. The tribunal can also award compensation for injury to feelings which may include loss of confidence and personal relationship damage. As most...