Many people spend a significant part of their lives in the workplace. Sexual relationships between work colleagues are very common. However, occasionally, this sexual attention is not welcomed.
What is sexual harassment?
Sexual harassment can take may different forms including sexual demands or requests for sexual favours (from members of the same or opposite sex), indecent remarks or name calling using demeaning words that are gender specific, questions about someone's sex life, demeaning comments about someone's appearance, uninvited physical contact, and any other behaviour of a sexual nature that could cause someone to feel intimidated or create an environment that is hostile or humiliating.
Sexual harassment is a serious issue. It can cause distress and illness. It affects both women and men. It is unlawful; and employers have a responsibility to prevent and manage it.
What should I do if I'm being sexually harassed?
In order for the harassment to stop you will need to tell the harasser that their behaviour (and be specific here) is unwelcome and that you want it to stop. You can ask a trusted colleague or trade union representative or even a friend to be with you. A witness is good for giving you moral support and may be able to provide or back-up evidence later if necessary.
Keep a record of any incidents and any action you take (a diary, copies of letters etc.), and if anyone else is being harassed, get them to do the same. It is important that any sexual harassment is dealt with as soon as possible in order to protect yourself and colleagues in the future.
After the harassment has been reported
In particular cases, even if and when the situation is sorted out, you should not be made to work alongside the harasser (if they still work there). Again, it is the employer's responsibility to take all reasonable steps to ensure your work environment is not threatening.
What's the difference between sexual harassment and sexual discrimination?
Sexual Discrimination is when you are treated unfairly in any way because of your sex (and you can show that someone of the opposite is not being treated that way) then this is direct discrimination.
