A new survey highlights ongoing risks of sexual harassment faced by women in workplaces with over 250 employees, despite upcoming legal changes.
- More than half of women feel their workplace is still unsafe, with 8% viewing the risk as substantial.
- Employers are mandated to take steps against harassment, but many lack clear policies or effective procedures.
- Trust in organisational accountability is low, with significant numbers unsure of reporting mechanisms.
- Leaders are seen as committed, yet gaps between commitment and action remain noticeable.
In a recent survey conducted by INvolve, it was found that a significant majority of women, specifically over 55%, perceive a prevailing risk of sexual harassment within their work environment, despite the upcoming full implementation of the Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Act 2023. This legislation aims to obligate employers to actively prevent such conduct. Distressingly, 8% of respondents feel that the threat is particularly severe.
The survey, which sampled 1,002 women working in organisations with a workforce exceeding 250 employees, further revealed that 25% have witnessed instances of sexual harassment over the past five years, and over 11% have encountered such incidents on multiple occasions. These findings underscore a persistent gap between the legal requirements soon to be instituted and the current preventive measures in place at many organisations.
Less than half of the surveyed participants, only 48%, believe that their employers have instituted definitive sexual harassment policies. Similarly, a meagre 32% are confident in the fairness and impartiality of their organisation’s investigation processes. Alarmingly, 17% of women assert that their workplaces have not taken any practical steps toward curtailing the likelihood of harassment.
The report raises concerns about the adequacy of existing reporting procedures. Although a substantial majority, 83%, claim they would know how to report harassment if witnessed or experienced, a notable minority remains uncertain. Sixteen percent would not know how to respond if witnessing harassment, 14% if experiencing it firsthand, and 20% if informed about it by another. This indicates critical deficiencies in communication and training concerning these protocols.
Despite 85% of women acknowledging their leadership’s verbal commitment to fostering a secure and respectful environment, only 44% consider them as ‘very committed’, with over 13% doubting their employer’s dedication altogether. This discrepancy between perceived commitment and actionable measures reflects an urgent need for organisations not just to express, but to manifestly demonstrate, their resolve to ensure a harassment-free workplace.
In light of these findings, Suki Sandhu OBE, the founder and CEO of INvolve, stated, “The results are deeply concerning and show just how much more work businesses need to do to ensure that women employees are safe in the workplace…” He emphasised the importance of bridging the gulf between commitment and facilitated change, urging leaders to prioritise accountability and effectively implement comprehensive protective measures.
The data reveals a pressing need for organisations to enhance their commitment to preventing workplace harassment through tangible actions.
