Sexual harassment - Don’t put up with it

Sexual harassment is often dismissed by those not suffering from it as ‘just a bit of fun’ or ‘a bit of harmless flirting’. In reality, it is a very specific form of sex discrimination and is against the law. This information sets out some of the actions you can take if you have suffered sexual harassment at work.

Sexual harassment is unwelcome behaviour of a sexual nature.

Any of the following may count as sexual harassment:

• indecent or suggestive remarks

• questions or comments about your sex life

• the display of pornography

• the circulation of obscene material (by e-mail, for example)

• inappropriate touching

• requests or demands for sexual favours

• any unwelcome behaviour of a sexual nature that creates an intimidating, hostile or humiliating working environment.

Prolonged harassment can lead to serious health problems, including depression. Don’t put up with this type of behaviour.

Make sure that you do not suffer any reprisals as a result of reporting the sexual harassment. If you are not satisfied with your employer’s response you can consider raising a formal grievance about the incident. You can take your complaint to an employment tribunal where it will be heard under the Sex Discrimination Act. From 1 October 2004 you may not be able to make a tribunal claim until you have raised a formal grievance with your employer, depending on the circumstances. There are strict time limits for making an employment tribunal claim. You may need to do this within 3 months from the date of the last incident of harassment, so it is important to get advice as soon as possible.

Take the following steps:
Tell a friend or trusted colleague what is happening ask the harasser to stop if the problem persists, ask the harasser to stop in writing, explaining that you find their behaviour objectionable report the harasser to your employer or trade union. Report any harassment early in order to protect yourself and others.

Your employer should:
Take your complaint seriously and stop the harassment explain how they intend to deal with it speak to the person concerned about their behaviour.

For further information on sexual harassment and making a tribunal claim, visit the Equal Opportunities Commission website or call the EOC Helpline on 0845 601 5901, or email them at info@eoc.org.uk.