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Workplace Harassment: Your Rights and Employer Obligations

Last updated Feb 14 2025 | Employment Law

by Rory Lindsay

by Rory Lindsay

Solicitor

In this article

Examples of workplace harassment

Understanding harassment through examples can help identify problematic behaviour.

Julie’s case: A six-month pregnant employee experiences discriminatory comments about her appearance from colleagues when getting her lunch. This constitutes harassment related to pregnancy, a protected characteristic.

Harry’s case: When colleagues learn about Harry’s consideration of gender reassignment surgery, they circulate edited photos mockingly depicting Harry as a woman. This represents harassment and discrimination based on gender reassignment.

Sarah’s case: During a meeting, a colleague aggressively voices anti-religious views, causing serious offence to Sarah, a devout Christian. Though perhaps unintended, this constitutes harassment based on religion.

Can workplace harassment happen outside the workplace?

Workplace harassment can happen outside of the usual working environment. This can include business trips, staff parties and socials, and even online e.g. social media.

Employers are still required to prevent, address, and investigate these types of harassment.

What to do if the harasser is a senior member of staff

It’s still advisable to follow the options above. However, it can feel like a tricky situation, as senior staff members often come across as ‘untouchable’.

You could try to raise an anonymous complaint e.g. by letter. However, this method makes it difficult for the complaint handler to investigate or escalate the matter.

If you feel it’s not possible to escalate it internally, you could go straight down the route of ACAS or Union.

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If you found the contents of this blog useful, please feel free to share it on social media. Sharing our article helps others in need find the same information.