Preventative sexual harassment policies must be in place from today
Unite, the UK’s leading union, has warned employers it will hold them to account if they do not abide by new sexual harassment laws that come into force today (Saturday).
Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Although it isn’t perfect, Unite welcomes the new law and is today putting employers on notice that we will be holding them to account if proactive policies to prevent sexual harassment are not in place.
“Sexual harassment occurs across the economy – strong unions backed by effective legislation are essential for stamping it out.”
Abuse from customers and service users must also be considered
As well as pre-emptive policies to prevent sexual harassment amongst colleagues, the new law requires that third party sexual harassment by customers or services users must also be mitigated against.
In its original form, the law contained the right to take an employer to tribunal if they did not take reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment by a third party. However, this right - as well as for those reporting sexual harassment to be given whistle-blower protections - was removed by the previous government.
Zero tolerance approach to sexual harassment
Unite national officer for equalities, Alison Spencer-Scragg, said: “Preventing sexual harassment should be at the top of every employer’s agenda. Whilst this new legislation doesn’t go far enough, companies must immediately review their procedures and create a zero-tolerance approach to workplace sexual harassment.
“It is pleasing that the Labour government has included the protections excluded by the previous administration within its New Deal for Working People. Unite will be keeping a close eye on the Employment Rights Bill as it passes through parliament to make sure they remain there.”
ENDS
For media enquires ONLY contact senior Unite communications officer Ryan Fletcher on 07849 090215 or 020 3371 2065.
Email: ryan.fletcher@unitetheunion.org
Unite is Britain and Ireland’s largest union with members working across all sectors of the economy. The general secretary is Sharon Graham.