If You Think You’ve Been Sexually Harassed
Take the following measures:
- Tell the harasser that the behaviour is inappropriate, unwelcome, and the behaviour must stop.
- If you’re in danger, call the police on 999.
If sexual harassment escalates into violence, threats or sexual assault, you can report this to the police by calling 101 or contacting your local police force. Whether you report a crime to the police is entirely up to you.
On a night out? Or out in the community? There may be a Safe Space or Safe Place that you can go to and receive support from staff.
Experiencing sexual harassment at work can create a stressful and hostile working environment, particularly if you’re harassed by someone who works closely with you.
If you’re sexually harassed by someone at work, you may feel intimidated or anxious about going to work.
If you think you have been sexually harassed at work:
- Tell the harasser that the behaviour is inappropriate, unwelcome, and the behaviour must stop.
- If you’re in danger, call the police on 999.
If the behaviour continues, elevate the issue to your supervisor (or next level of supervision if complaint is against supervisor).
Sexual harassment at work can be reported to your manager, HR representative or trade union to take action. You can also speak to the Equality Advisory and Support Service for independent advice.
It’s a good idea to keep a record of any emails, messages or photos you send or receive regarding the harassment. These may help if you choose to report and may help your employer to investigate.
If You Think Someone You Know or Supervise Has Been Sexually Harassed
Take the following measures:
- Make sure they have told the harasser that the behaviour is inappropriate, unwelcome, and the behaviour must stop.
- If the behaviour continues, elevate the issue to the Victim’s supervisor (next level of supervision if complaint is against supervisor).
- Speak to the Equality Advisory and Support Service for independent advice.
Further help and support services:
- Victim Support – an independent charity that provides free, confidential advice to people affected by crime in England and Wales.
- ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) – they work with employers and employees to improve workplace relationships. They provide free and impartial advice to employers, employees and their representatives on employment, best practice and policies, and resolving workplace conflict.
- Rights of Women – sexual harassment at work advice line that can advise you on identifying sexual harassment, how to report sexual harassment to your employer, advice about grievances, investigations and appeals, Employment Tribunal procedures, Settlement Agreements and Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs).