New legal duties on employers to protect staff from sexual harassment, including harassment from customers and clients, come into force today. The change restores protections for so-called third-party harassment that were removed by the previous government in 2013.
The requirement means employers must now take steps to prevent sexual harassment before it happens, rather than only acting after an incident. That could include practical training for staff, clear and visible behaviour expectations, warnings for customers about misconduct, clear action in response to complaints, and a safe process for employees to report harassment.
Why the change matters
Nearly 1 in 4 people who experience sexual harassment say it happens at work, according to figures cited by the government. The new duty applies to harassment from other employees as well as from customers and clients, and covers online harassment through Teams chats, emails, group chats or phone calls.
The changes are seen as particularly important for hospitality workers, where public-facing jobs can leave staff exposed. The government noted that many young people take their first jobs in pubs, clubs and restaurants, and that most people interact with hospitality workers daily.
Prevention fund announced
Alongside the legal changes, the Chancellor has agreed to invest £15m in a new Misogyny Prevention Fund, which will provide grants to organisations working to change attitudes and support women and girls. The government said it will work with corporate partners and philanthropists to build on the funding and expand its impact.
The government said turning the tide on misogyny is everyone's responsibility, involving government, business, the public sector and the public, and that while change will not happen overnight, inaction is not an option.
