Later this month, employers will be under new legal obligations to take ‘reasonable steps’ to protect their workforce from sexual harassment, when a new law comes into effect on 26th October.
Businesses employing people should be reviewing their current systems and policies to ensure they are compliant with the new duties.
Under the Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Act 2023, employment tribunals may award up to 25% increased compensation against employers who breach this new duty. The Equality and Human Rights Commission also has new powers to take enforcement action.
However, here at Glass Ceilings we recognise this is a time of great uncertainty and competing pressures for businesses. We are here to advise organisations on their policies, systems, and culture to ensure they are up to date and compliant with the new legislation – not just because it’s the law but because it’s the right thing to do.
As well as our general training, we are also running an Employment Law and Policy Masterclass on 24th October which will equip delegates with in-depth understanding and knowledge of the new legislation from an employment lawyer, as well as a facilitated session on good practice, case studies, updating your policies and procedures, and the opportunity to ask questions.
Our CEO, Laura Evans, says: “I have over 15 years’ experience in dealing with harassment and sexual harassment cases – up to and including Employment Tribunal. Since I worked on cross-government development of equality legislation in my early career, I have always advocated for increased preventative measures around sexual harassment in the workplace and welcome this strengthening of the Equality Act 2010.”
For support, advice, or training around preventing sexual harassment in the workplace or responding to an allegation, email: [email protected]
1st October, 2024