Effective 26 October 2024
The Worker Protection Act, amending the Equality Act 2010, introduces a new statutory duty for employers to take reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace. Failure to comply may result in enforcement action from the Equality and Human Rights Commission or a compensation uplift of up to 25% in tribunal claims.
While employers are already responsible for preventing harassment, this new legislation makes the duty to prevent sexual harassment a standalone requirement. The Act stops short of making employers liable for third-party harassment after initial proposals were amended during its passage through Parliament.
These legislative changes highlight the ongoing evolution of workers’ rights in the UK. Employers should take note of the new requirements and prepare to implement the necessary changes to stay compliant with the law.