03.03.2025

On 26th April 2025, it will be six months since the crucial Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Act 2023 came into force. This legislation placed a vital proactive duty on employers to take reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment at work.

As we approach this significant milestone, now is the time to ask: Is your organisation truly embedding these changes? Are you confident that you’ve taken the necessary steps to protect your employees and mitigate risk?

A quick recap: The core obligations

The Act, along with the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) updated technical guidance, emphasises that:

  • No employer is exempt: Regardless of size or sector, every organisation must act.
  • Prevention is key: This is an anticipatory duty, meaning you must proactively identify and address potential risks.
  • Risk assessments are crucial: Thorough, ongoing assessments are essential, not just a one-off exercise.
  • Third-party harassment matters: The duty extends to protecting employees from harassment by clients, customers, and other third parties.

  • Compliance has consequences: Failure to comply can lead to EHRC enforcement and potential uplifts in compensation for successful sexual harassment claims.

    Beyond compliance: Building a culture of respect

    While legal compliance is paramount, true protection goes beyond ticking boxes. It requires fostering a workplace culture where respect and dignity are non-negotiable.

    Are you still taking these vital steps?

  • Regular review: Are your risk assessments and action plans being reviewed regularly? Remember, the EHRC expects ongoing monitoring.
  • Training effectiveness: Has your training been effective? Are you getting good feedback from staff? Have you refreshed the training?
  • Reporting confidence: Do your staff feel confident in reporting incidents? Are your anonymous reporting channels effective?
  • Third-party action: Have you taken steps to minimise the risk of third party harassment?
  • Policy application: Are your policies being applied consistently?
  • Data analysis: Are you analysing data from reports and surveys to identify trends?

How Make UK can support you

We understand the challenges employers face in navigating these complex requirements. We're here to help you move beyond mere compliance and build a truly safe and respectful workplace. Here’s how we can support you:

  • Comprehensive training: Our suite of training programmes, available virtually or face-to-face, covers all levels of your organisation, from frontline staff to senior leadership.
  • HR and Management workshops: We offer workshops and visioning sessions to assist with planning, implementation, and ongoing review of your preventative measures. To book a place on one of our half-day training courses on sexual harassment aimed at HR professionals, click here.
  • Template documentation: We provide essential resources, including anti-bullying and harassment policies, equality policies, workplace risk assessments (in collaboration with our health and safety team), HR action plans, and workforce surveys.
  • ED&I training and consultancy: Our full range of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (ED&I) training and consultancy services supports your broader duties under the Equality Act 2010.
  • Pulse surveys and Focus groups: We can help you gather honest feedback from your staff.

It’s not too late, the duty to prevent sexual harassment is ongoing. Proactive measures and a commitment to continuous improvement are essential. Act now to ensure your workplace is safe and compliant. For further details, see Sexual Harassment | Make UK.

Our experts can help you create a workplace where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued. Give us a call on 0808 168 5874 or drop us an email at [email protected], and we’ll be right with you!

Are you struggling to keep up with employment law and HR responsibilities? With constantly changing regulations and evolving workplace priorities, it can be challenging. That's why we've developed this essential HR and Employment Law Compliance Checklist – your guide to staying compliant, proactive and prepared.