A former JD Sports employee has received a £65,000 settlement after taking legal action over a serious incident of sexual harassment at work.
Incident and Inadequate Response
Jayla Boyd was working part-time at a JD Sports store in Belfast in July 2024 while studying for her A-levels when a male supervisor slapped her on the bottom. She reported the incident immediately to her manager, who confirmed it was captured on CCTV.
Despite this, the supervisor was permitted to finish his shift working alongside Ms Boyd. She stated he approached her twice to apologise, explaining his actions as "muscle memory".
Ms Boyd felt profoundly let down by the company's subsequent handling of her formal complaint. She submitted a written statement but claims she was never formally interviewed about the experience. Feeling unsupported and distressed, she used annual leave to take time away from her job.
Systemic Failures and Resignation
Upon her return, no return-to-work meeting was arranged, and she received no updates on the investigation into her complaint. To her further embarrassment, she believed her personal information relating to the case was visible to other staff on a manager's computer.
The situation worsened during a staff training session where an example involving a woman being slapped on the bottom by a supervisor was discussed. Ms Boyd was convinced the scenario was based on her own experience.
These cumulative failures led Ms Boyd to resign from her position. "The initial incident was embarrassing, but it was made worse because I felt like they were trying to ignore what had happened to me instead of dealing with it properly," she said.
Legal Support and Corporate Apology
Ms Boyd was supported in her case by the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland. Chief Commissioner Geraldine McGahey emphasised that employers must have clear, robust policies. "A zero-tolerance approach by employers to sexual harassment in the workplace will remind everyone how seriously it will be dealt with," she stated.
In a statement, a JD Sports Fashion spokesperson offered an unreserved apology to Ms Boyd for the "significant upset caused". They confirmed the incident was addressed in line with company policies and that the individual involved is no longer employed by JD Sports.
The company added it is working to create an environment of dignity and respect and welcomed further liaison with the Equality Commission to review policies and procedures.
Ms Boyd hopes that by speaking out, she will empower others to challenge unacceptable behaviour in the workplace. "Everyone deserves to feel safe and supported at work," she concluded.
