The New Equality Act 2010 Amendment and its Impact on Sexual Harassment Prevention

This new legislation, which has received royal assent, brings about critical changes in how employers should address and prevent sexual harassment in the workplace. In this blog, we will explore what this bill entails and how it impacts workers in the UK.

Understanding the Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Bill

The Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Bill is an important addition to the existing Equality Act 2010. It introduces a legal duty on employers to take reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment of their employees in the workplace. This amendment acknowledges the need to provide a safer and more inclusive environment for all workers, regardless of their gender or any other protected characteristic.

What are the main points of the Bill?

1. Employer Responsibility: Under this bill, employers have a clear and specific duty to prevent sexual harassment. They are expected to create policies and procedures aimed at addressing and preventing harassment in the workplace.
2. Employee Protection: The bill provides greater protection to employees who experience or witness sexual harassment. It ensures that victims are more likely to have their complaints taken seriously and handled appropriately.
3. Training and Awareness: Employers must now provide training and raise awareness about sexual harassment issues. This helps employees understand what constitutes harassment, how to report it, and the consequences for those who engage in such behaviour.
4. Third-Party Harassment: The bill also extends protection to employees who experience harassment from third parties, such as clients or customers, while on the job. Employers must take steps to prevent this type of harassment as well.

Impact on UK Workers

The Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Bill has several significant implications for UK workers:

1. Safer Work Environment: The bill ensures that employees are entitled to work in a safer and more respectful environment. Knowing that their employers are legally obligated to prevent and address sexual harassment can provide a sense of security and confidence.
2. Increased Accountability: Employers are now more accountable for the well-being of their employees. Failing to address sexual harassment adequately can lead to legal consequences, including fines and compensation for victims.
3. Better Reporting Mechanisms: With the introduction of clear policies and training, workers have more accessible and effective mechanisms to report sexual harassment from clients, customers, or third parties. Employers must take steps to prevent and address such issues, offering additional protection to workers.

The Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Bill is a significant development in the UK’s commitment to create safer and more inclusive workplaces. It places the responsibility on employers to take active measures in preventing and addressing sexual harassment, ensuring that workers across the country can thrive in an environment free from discrimination and harassment. This legislative change marks a positive step toward a more equitable and respectful working world.

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