According to UK law, sexual harassment is unwanted conduct or behaviour related to sex, or of a sexual nature, which has the purpose or effect of:
- violating the other’s dignity, or
- creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating, or offensive environment.
The legal definition also encompasses less favourable treatment because of rejection (or submission) of unwanted conduct of a sexual nature or related to gender reassignment or sex.
The law can apply to one-off incidents, or to patterns of behaviour. We must not underestimate the cumulative effect a pattern of ‘low-level’, even unintentional, sexual harassment can have on the victim. At its worst, sexual harassment destroys careers, and damages mental health.
Getting support if you have experienced sexual harassment
If you’re a Prospect member and you’re unsure whether a situation you’re experiencing classifies as harassment, please speak to your local representative or contact us.
Members in the defence sector
Prospect is launching a new sexual harassment support service with a pilot for our members in the defence sector. If you are a Prospect member working in the defence sector, fill in our contact form and our specially trained team will be in touch.
Download our guide
Download Prospect‘s workplace guide to dealing with sexual harassment