Are sexual harassment complaints at work confidential?

Sexual harassment in the workplace is a serious issue that can have profound effects on the victims and the overall work environment. One of the key concerns for individuals considering reporting sexual harassment is the confidentiality of their complaints. It’s crucial for employers to handle these complaints with the utmost care and discretion. Below, we […]

Prevention and sexual harassment: why does it take the Workers Protection Act to make real change?

For the past seven years, since founding Tell Jane, we’ve partnered with companies across the UK to shift their approach to handling sexual harassment—from reacting to incidents to truly prioritising prevention. We’re fortunate to work with organisations committed to building respectful, inclusive cultures, and yet all too often, companies still reach out only after an […]

How to conduct a workplace investigation into sexual harassment: a step-by-step guide

As awareness around sexual harassment in the workplace grows with the implementation of the Workers Protection Act, businesses must prioritise not only clear policies but also an effective workplace investigation process for handling sexual harassment complaints.  A well-structured sexual harassment investigation can help ensure fairness, protect the rights of all involved, and contribute to a […]

 Navigating workplace banter: How HR can address harmful behaviour and focus on impact

In many workplaces, humour is part of the culture, bringing light-heartedness to a busy or stressful environment. But there’s a fine line between friendly joking and inappropriate behaviour. When “banter” crosses that line, it can lead to serious issues such as harassment, exclusion, or bullying. For HR professionals, one of the most challenging situations is […]

Navigating workplace relationships: Guidance for HR professionals

Workplace relationships have always presented a delicate challenge for HR professionals. Whether it’s romantic relationships or potential conflicts of interest with family members, striking the right balance between respecting personal connections and protecting the company’s interests is crucial. In the UK, while workplace relationships are generally approached with a more relaxed attitude than in the […]

The power of allyship: How to be a supportive colleague and prevent sexual harassment at work

Why allyship is crucial in preventing sexual harassment Sexual harassment in the workplace is a serious issue that affects employees across all industries. While companies may have policies in place, the everyday actions of colleagues are what truly shape workplace culture. Allyship—the act of using your influence and privilege to support those facing harassment or […]

The Worker Protection Act: How to ensure your business is ready 

The law around preventing sexual harassment at work is changing – and it couldn’t come at a better time. The Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Act 2023 marks a game-changing shift, pushing employers and their people teams to take a more proactive approach, rather than simply reacting to complaints of sexual harassment. It’s […]

Conducting an effective sexual harassment risk assessment in the workplace

With the recent introduction of sexual harassment prevention in the UK, employers are now required to proactively address this critical issue. For HR professionals, it’s essential to understand that an effective sexual harassment risk assessment isn’t just a box-ticking exercise. It involves identifying potential risks, addressing power dynamics, and understanding how professional boundaries can blur, […]

How to conduct effective risk assessments for workplace sexual harassment: A practical guide for HR professionals in the UK

Sexual harassment in the workplace is a pervasive issue that impacts organisations across industries. Recent statistics from the Trades Union Congress (TUC) show that 52% of women in the UK have experienced sexual harassment at work. These figures highlight the urgent need for businesses to implement robust sexual harassment prevention strategies. Conducting a thorough risk […]

Workplace investigation: Why effective complaint handling is crucial for preventing sexual harassment

Preventing sexual harassment in the workplace involves more than just policies or awareness campaigns. Many organisations focus heavily on reporting systems and training, which are essential components. However, a critical third pillar often gets overlooked: effective complaint handling. A well-structured workplace investigation process is the backbone of ensuring that complaints are dealt with fairly, consistently, […]

How to promote inclusion at work: Beyond the obvious solutions

Promoting inclusion at work is more than just a box-ticking exercise. Most HR professionals are familiar with the common strategies: unconscious bias training, diversity hiring initiatives, and celebrating various cultural holidays. While these steps are important, they often only scratch the surface. True inclusion is deeper and more complex, requiring a thoughtful approach that goes […]

Balancing relationships and responsibilities: Employer duties under the new workers protection act

Love can blossom anywhere—even at work. According to a survey by TotalJobs, 22% of UK employees have met their partner through work, and two-thirds have either dated a colleague or would be open to doing so. With so many of us spending a significant portion of our lives at work, it’s not surprising that relationships […]