Harassment takes many forms, such as verbal, physical, sexual and psychological. It remains a reality in many workplaces, in ways that are subtle, unspoken, or easily overlooked. In an organisation it is important to recognise harmful behaviour.  It is the responsibility of the employer to create a safe environment. Likewise, an employee must know when they have been harassed and know what to do. The workplace should have clear policies and procedures to deal with this.

Harassment is not always loud or explicit. It is often part of everyday interactions. For the instance, the form of repeated comments about appearance or clothing, unwanted messages, jokes with sexual undertones, physical proximity that feels uncomfortable, or intrusive questions. These behaviours are not always intended to cause harm but their impact matters. What defines harassment is not intent, but the effect on the person experiencing it.

Speaking up is not always easy. When someone does, they may face exclusion or disadvantage. This kind of response undermine efforts to create a fair and respectful environment.

Harassment in all its forms can take place both in and outside the workplace, in person or online, during working hours or outside them. It increases stress and affects wellbeing.

Raintree Works can help mitigate harassment risk in your workplace. We can also help you navigate a scenario where this has already occurred.

Our training uses interactive exercises, real life scenarios and reflective practice.

We provide support to managers to help draft policies and understand which procedures must be implemented before and after harassment occurs.