Understanding the New Sexual Harassment Law and Its Impact on Temporary Workers
On 26th October 2024, a landmark change in sexual harassment laws came into effect, marking a pivotal moment in workplace culture and employee protection. These changes impact not only permanent employees but also temporary workers, an essential part of the workforce across many industries. At Perfect Recruitment, we are committed to ensuring our temporary workers and clients are fully informed and compliant with this new legislation.
What’s New in the Law of Sexual Harassment?
The updated legislation introduces stricter guidelines to protect employees from sexual harassment in the workplace. Among the key changes:
- No More ‘Banter’ Defence: Courts will no longer accept jokes or banter as mitigation in sexual harassment cases.
- 25% Uplift on Awards: If employers fail to take reasonable steps to prevent harassment, the compensation awarded can now increase by 25%—a financial burden that could close businesses overnight.
The Impact on Temporary Workers
Temporary workers often navigate different work environments, making them potentially vulnerable to unclear policies or workplace misconduct. This new law ensures that all workers, regardless of employment status, are equally protected and that employers are held accountable.
How Perfect Recruitment is Supporting Workers and Clients
At Perfect Recruitment, we take these changes seriously. Here’s how we’re taking proactive steps:
- Online Training for All Staff:
We’re in the process of organising online training for both our temporary workers and office team. This training will provide essential knowledge on recognising, preventing, and addressing harassment in the workplace. - Client Policy Records:
We’re reaching out to all our clients to request their policies and processes for handling sexual harassment cases. This ensures we have a clear understanding of their procedures and can support our workers effectively. - REC-Approved Checklist for Clients:
As members of the Recruitment & Employment Confederation (REC), we have access to a comprehensive checklist that helps clients ensure compliance with the updated law. We’re happy to share this resource to assist businesses in staying aligned with legal requirements. - Updated Policy on Our Website:
Our updated Sexual Harassment Policy is available on our website for full transparency. It reflects our unwavering commitment to creating safe, respectful, and supportive workplaces.
Protecting Your Business
For employers, these new laws highlight the importance of proactive measures. The cost of non-compliance isn’t just financial—it’s reputational. With a 25% uplift in compensation for mishandled cases, the stakes have never been higher. By ensuring robust policies, training, and reporting mechanisms, businesses can protect themselves and their workers alike.
Moving Forward Together
At Perfect Recruitment, we are dedicated to fostering workplaces where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued. Whether you’re a client or a temporary worker, we’re here to guide you through these changes and ensure compliance every step of the way.
If you have any questions about how these changes affect you or your business, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Together, we can navigate this new landscape and continue building workplaces where everyone thrives.
For more information contact us directly or go to https://www.gov.uk/government/news/new-protections-from-sexual-harassment-come-into-force
