Prospect tackling sexual harassment in energy with pilot training programme

Last year Prospect received a number of disturbing reports of members in the energy sector being subjected to sexual harassment.

We subsequently ran a survey of energy members, which sadly only confirmed that there was a real problem that needed to be tackled.

• 40% of women across the sector have personally experienced sexual harassment at work.
• That rises to over 50% of women aged 30-50, who are also the least confident about reporting sexual harassment to management.
• 50% of women in the same age range fear there would be negative impacts on their career if they were to report the harassment.

We know that this is a serious issue in other Prospect sectors too.

As part of our commitment to tackling sexual harassment in our workplaces, we have in recent months begun rolling out a pilot training programme to lead reps in a small number of branches across the energy sector, including to National Grid Electricity Distribution and in Sellafield.

The purpose of the training is to get branches to understand the culture in their workplaces, and to support branch committees in driving towards inclusive cultures that are safe for everyone.

Sexual harassment takes many forms – including sexist ‘jokes’ and innuendo; comments about a person’s body or appearance; sharing of pornographic images; and unwanted physical contact, physical threats or assault.

Over the next few months the training will  be rolled out more widely, and additional sessions will be arranged for more reps within the branches.

Prospect full-time officers will also be developing effective  strategies for engaging with employers to make sure that they doing are all they can to tackle sexual harassment.

Prospect’s Sexual Harassment Support Service

Prospect has a policy of zero tolerance – we will support members who face unacceptable behaviours at, or arising from, their work.

If you’re a Prospect member and you think you have experienced sexual harassment, we’re here for you.

Our Sexual Harassment Support Service is staffed by a specially trained team who are here to listen to you and guide you through any formal process, should you wish.

>>> Find out more about our Sexual Harassment Support Service

>>> Download our Workplace Guide to Dealing with Sexual Harassment