Workplace Harassment: Recognising It and Taking Action

Workplace harassment is more than just an unpleasant experience—it is unlawful under UK law and can have serious consequences for both employees and employers. Understanding what constitutes harassment, how to address it, and where to get support is key to protecting your rights and ensuring a safe working environment.

What Is Workplace Harassment?

Under the Equality Act 2010, harassment occurs when someone engages in unwanted conduct related to a protected characteristic—such as age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation—that has the purpose or effect of violating a person’s dignity or creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating, or offensive environment.

Harassment can take many forms:

• Offensive jokes, comments, or “banter”

• Unwanted physical contact

• Exclusion from meetings or social events

• Displaying or sharing offensive material

• Repeated unwanted advances

It can be a one-off incident or a pattern of behaviour, and importantly, it is the impact on the victim, not the intention of the perpetrator, that matters.

Steps You Can Take if You Experience Harassment

If you believe you are experiencing workplace harassment, there are several steps you can take:

1. Document Everything – Keep a detailed record of incidents, including dates, times, locations, what was said or done, and any witnesses.

2. Review Your Employer’s Policy – Most organisations have grievance or anti-harassment policies that outline reporting procedures.

3. Speak Up Early – If you feel safe to do so, tell the person their behaviour is unacceptable. Sometimes this can resolve misunderstandings before they escalate.

4. Report the Issue Formally – Use your company’s grievance procedure to lodge a formal complaint.

5. Seek Legal Advice – If the harassment continues or your employer fails to act, legal advice can help you understand your rights and possible claims, such as constructive dismissal or discrimination.

Employer Responsibilities

UK employers have a legal duty to protect employees from harassment. This includes:

• Implementing clear anti-harassment policies

• Providing training to staff

• Investigating complaints promptly and fairly

• Taking action to prevent recurrence

Failure to meet these duties can leave employers liable for harassment carried out by their employees, even if they were unaware of it.

How MLS Legal Services Can Help

At MLS Legal Services, we understand how emotionally and professionally challenging workplace harassment cases can be. Our employment law specialists provide:

• Clear, Practical Advice – Explaining your rights in plain English so you can make informed decisions.

• Case Assessment – Reviewing your evidence to determine the strength of your claim.

• Negotiation and Representation – Engaging with your employer to seek resolution, whether that’s stopping the harassment, securing compensation, or supporting an exit strategy.

• Tribunal Support – If necessary, representing you at the Employment Tribunal to fight for a fair outcome.

Because we know harassment claims often involve sensitive, personal matters, we handle every case with confidentiality, empathy, and determination. Our goal is to give you the legal strength and clarity you need to take action confidently.

If you are experiencing workplace harassment, don’t suffer in silence. Contact MLS Legal Services today for expert guidance and compassionate support—so you can reclaim your dignity, protect your career, and hold those responsible to account.