At Handle, we want everyone we work with to feel safe, respected and comfortable at work.
Sexual harassment is unacceptable and unlawful. We all have a part to play in preventing it, whether you are working on assignment with a client, working remotely or attending a work-related event.
Creating a respectful workplace is everyone’s responsibility. That means being mindful of our own behaviour and how it may affect others, as well as recognising and speaking up about behaviour from others that may be inappropriate or make someone uncomfortable. This short guide explains what to look out for and what to do if something doesn't feel right.
What is sexual harassment?
Sexual harassment is unwanted behaviour of a sexual nature that violates someone's dignity or creates an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment. E.g.
- sexual jokes, comments or "banter"
- unwanted flirting or sexual attention
- comments about someone's body, appearance or sex life
- intrusive personal or sexual questions
- sexual messages, images or content
- unwanted touching or physical contact
- repeatedly asking someone out when they have shown they are not interested.
It can come from anyone
Harassment is not limited to behaviour between colleagues. It could involve a manager, colleague, client, customer, contractor, supplier or another temporary/freelance worker.
You shouldn't feel you have to put up with inappropriate behaviour, regardless of who it comes from.
What should I do if something happens?
If you experience something that makes you uncomfortable, please speak up.
If you feel comfortable doing so, you can tell the person that their behaviour is unwanted and ask them to stop. But you do not have to confront anyone yourself.
You can speak to your manager where you're working or contact your Handle consultant or another member of the Handle team. We'd much rather you tell us about something that's concerning you so that we can support you.
Vulnerable situations
We also want to be informed if your working arrangements leave you feeling more vulnerable.
If you are asked to work alone, late at night, or in circumstances where you have concerns about your personal safety, please let your Handle consultant know.
Don't assume we already know about a change to your working arrangements. If something doesn't feel safe or you're uncomfortable, please speak to us so we can understand the situation and, where appropriate, discuss it with the client.
What if I witness something?
If you see or hear something that doesn't feel right, don't simply assume someone else will deal with it. Please speak up. Depending on the situation you could:
- challenge or interrupt inappropriate behaviour, only if you feel comfortable and safe doing so
- check in with the person affected
- encourage them to speak to someone
- raise the concern with Handle yourself.
You aren't expected to investigate the situation or put yourself at risk.
What about work social events?
The same expectations apply at work parties, client entertainment, networking events, conferences and after-work drinks. An informal setting - or alcohol being involved - doesn't make inappropriate behaviour acceptable.
Remember
Be respectful. Look out for each other. Speak up if something doesn't feel right.
If you're ever unsure about something you've experienced or witnessed - or concerned about the circumstances you're being asked to work in - please talk to us. Handle is here to support you.
Free ACAS training
All Handle workers are required to complete ACAS's short, free online training on Sexual Harassment at Work: Prevention and Early Action.
It takes around 30 minutes and provides useful, practical guidance on recognising and responding to inappropriate behaviour.
Quick check before you finish
- Can sexual harassment come from a client or customer? Yes.
- Does someone have to intend to cause offence? No.
- Can behaviour at a work social event count? Yes.
- Do you have to confront someone yourself before reporting it? No.
- Should you raise concerns about something that you experience or witness? Yes
- Should you tell Handle if you're concerned about working alone or late at night? Yes.
Creating respectful and safe workplaces is something we all contribute to. Thank you for taking the time to read this and for helping us respect one another.