Reporting Harassment, Discrimination or Other Abuse Occurring at Work The decision of whether to report workplace misconduct is personal and rests with the person who was harmed. If you were sexually harassed or discriminated against, or a survivor of workplace abuse and want to report what happened to you, we can guide you through the process. If you’ve witnessed harassment and want to help, you may be feeling out of your depth as to how to proceed. It is our hope that this guide helps you navigate these delicate situations. Have you experienced workplace harassment, discrimination, or unwanted touching? Or, did you see it happen and aren’t sure what to do next?
This guide will help you understand: Your options for reporting if something happened to you or if you witnessed something How to prepare if you decide to report How to help a colleague decide whether or not to report, and give emotional support Some of the various services that exist to empower and support you. If you are in imminent danger now or at any time, call 999 immediately. What counts as harassment? Certain behaviours are illegal in the workplace under UK Criminal Law. Other behaviour may not be illegal, but still violates your employer’s policies or union protections. In other words, even if what happened to you isn’t illegal harassment, you still might be able to report it.
Before we discuss illegal harassment, we want you to know that YOU do not have to figure out whether what’s happening to you is illegal or not. You are not alone, and you have options. You can call your local police and they will help you determine if you have an actionable case. Or, if you are being harassed based on your sex or gender and need help figuring out whether you can take legal action for what’s happening to you, there are organisations that can help. If you’re a member of a trade union Contact your local representative or check your trade union’s website for how to get in touch.
They’ll help you decide what to do and might be able to come to meetings with your employer to support you. Your Right to Report Sexual Misconduct and Harassment 9