introduces the worker protection act, explains what sexual harassment is and the protections employers need to put into place to meet their duty to prevent sexual harassment at work.

This 1-hour introductory awareness session is suitable for all.

The Worker Protection Act, an amendment to the Equality Act, aims to protect employees from sexual harassment at work.   The act requires employers to take reasonable steps to employees from sexual harassment at work.  It changes the legal focus from redress to prevention and should not be ignored. 

In the event of any incident reaching tribunal or litigation the employer will required to prove that they have taken reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment at work, this is expected to demand evidencing compliance with the EHRC duty of care/code of practice.   If an employer is found at fault compensation claims will be subject to a 25% uplift.  If the claim involves discrimination there is no upper limit to what compensation can be imposed.

The act comes into effect on 26 October 2024.  Organisations will need to act quickly if they are to be compliant. 

CONTENT

• The Worker Protection Act – Key Points
• Sexual Harassment explained
• The EHRC duty of care
• EHRC steps for preventing Sexual Harassment at Work
  • Review, Update and Implement Anti-harassment Policies
  • Engage with staff
  • Risk Assess
  • Implement Robust Reporting Mechanisms
  • Train all employees
  • Handling Complaints and Reports
  • Managing Third Partes
• Other Considerations – Preparing to Defend
  • Making implementation effective
  • Evidencing training and implementation
• Further Sources Help, Advice and Support