Sexual harassment can often go unrecognised or unreported, yet its impact on individuals, teams, and organisations is significant. Employers have a clear responsibility to prevent and address it – not only to meet legal requirements, but to create a culture where people feel safe and respected.

This virtual workshop, grounded in the Worker Protection Act 2023 and Employment Rights Act 2025, provides a structured, practical introduction to recognising and addressing sexual harassment in the workplace. Through facilitated discussion, real-world scenarios, and interactive exercises, participants build the confidence to identify concerns, respond appropriately, and contribute to a positive workplace culture.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this workshop, participants will:

• Understand individual and organisational responsibilities under current legislation
• Identify both obvious and subtle forms of sexual harassment
• Recognise and navigate “grey areas”
• Apply practical bystander intervention techniques
• Understand the impact of harassment on individuals and teams
• Take personal responsibility for contributing to a respectful workplace

Workshop Outline

Why It Matters: Participants engage with live polls and facilitated discussion to explore how common harassment is and why it is often left unchallenged. This creates a shared understanding of the issue and why it requires active attention.

What It Looks Like: A range of workplace scenarios are used to explore both obvious and subtle forms of harassment. Participants discuss where the line sits, how context shapes perception, and how “banter” can sometimes cross into harmful behaviour.

The Law In Practice: Key legislation, including the Worker Protection Act 2023 and Employment Rights Act 2025, is explained in accessible language. The focus is on what this means in practice – clarifying responsibilities and expectations in day-to-day work.

Exploring the Fine Lines: Through case studies, participants examine situations where intent and impact differ. They discuss possible responses, challenge assumptions, and build confidence in handling ambiguity.

The Human Impact: Anonymised accounts and guided discussion highlight the real effects of harassment on individuals, teams, and organisational culture. Participants consider different perspectives and the wider consequences of inaction.

Bystander Intervention: The 5 Ds of Active Bystander Intervention are introduced as practical tools for responding to harassment. Participants explore when and how to apply each approach safely and effectively.

Action Planning and Reflection: The session ends with individual reflection and group discussion. Participants identify clear, practical steps they can take to support a respectful and accountable workplace.