By Margaret Adewale, human resources director, HR investigator & recruitment specialist at HR Dept Gloucester 

In recent times, the headlines have been dominated by disturbing reports of sexual harassment within prominent organisations, including the police, Government, BBC, and the medical profession, often involving individuals at the highest echelons of power. 

One might wonder how such pervasive issues can persist within entities that presumably have robust policies and procedures in place to prevent them. The unfortunate truth is that policies alone cannot eliminate sexual harassment; they must be actively communicated, reinforced, and embraced by all members of the organisation.

Policies and procedures often find their home on the company intranet or within handbooks and manuals, easily overlooked or forgotten. To truly combat sexual harassment, organizations must bridge the gap between policy and practice. Here's how:

1. Regular training and workshops: Mandatory, ongoing training sessions and workshops ensure that employees are well-informed about the organisation's policies and the consequences of harassment.

2. Clear reporting mechanisms: Establish and publicise accessible channels for reporting harassment, ensuring confidentiality and protection from retaliation.

3. Leadership commitment: Leadership must lead by example, demonstrating zero tolerance for harassment and actively promoting a respectful workplace culture.

4. Transparency and accountability: Regularly communicate actions taken in response to reported incidents, demonstrating that the organisation takes harassment seriously.

5. Cultivate inclusive values: Foster a culture of inclusivity, diversity, and respect, emphasising the importance of these values in all organisational aspects.

To combat sexual harassment effectively, organisations must move beyond policy documents and actively promote a culture of respect and accountability, ensuring that every employee is informed and empowered to make a positive change. Only through this comprehensive approach can we hope to eradicate harassment from our workplaces

If you or your organisation need expert guidance on preventing and addressing sexual harassment in the workplace, contact the HR Dept Gloucester for comprehensive support and solutions.