Sexual Harassment – Complying with the New Statutory Duty

Course overview

From October 2024, employers will be under a new statutory duty to take “reasonable steps” to prevent sexual harassment.

This course will define sexual harassment and identify behaviours that constitute it, which may not always be obvious. It will also clarify what’s involved in the new duty, including the “reasonable steps” that will be required to satisfy it in accordance with the updated official guidance, and the consequences of failing to comply.

Who should attend?

This course is aimed at those within organisations who will have overall responsibility for ensuring the new statutory duty is complied with, usually HR and senior management.

Benefits of attending

• This course is designed to give those with overall responsibility for ensuring compliance with the new duty the tools that they need to take the appropriate action.
• Delegates will leave the session armed with practical advice on next steps for achieving compliance, creating a more inclusive workplace culture, and minimising organisational risk.

Course content

• An overview of the legislative background that led to where we are today
• How is sexual harassment defined, and what types of behaviours fall within the definition?
• How does the new duty change an employer’s responsibility to prevent sexual harassment?
• What steps are likely to be required to comply with the new duty, and how will you assess what action your organisation needs to take?
• What are the consequences of failing to comply with the new duty?