EMPLOYMENT LAW UPDATE

As of 26th October 2024 a new law places a legal obligation on employers to take reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment from occurring under the Workers Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010). Fail to do so, businesses will be on the hook for hefty financial penalties if a claim is made.

Let’s break it down with a simple scenario...

Sexual Harassment happens at work > you’re taken to an employment tribunal > from October, here’s what could happen:

👩‍⚖️ If you did nothing to prevent harassment, you’re liable and the tribunal can bump up any compensation by up to 25%.

💷 If you took some reasonable steps to prevent harassment, you’re still liable, but no uplift will be applied to the compensation awarded.

❌ If you took all reasonable steps to prevent harassment, you’re not liable at all. No payouts.

Wouldn’t it be great to be able to confidently argue the last option? Or even better, have systems in place so harassment doesn’t happen at all! We’re giving away a FREE guidance booklet to ensure your business is taking all the necessary steps to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace.

Would you like a copy? Pop us an email at hello@realisehr.co.uk and we’ll send it straight over.