Tougher Workplace Harassment Protections Now in Force

Millions of workers are set to get stronger protections from sexual harassment at work from Friday 30 October 2026.

With nearly a quarter of adults who experience sexual harassment reporting it takes place in the workplace, the changes will ensure employers take the risks their staff face more seriously.

Harassment can leave someone dreading their next shift, questioning whether they will be believed or feeling like they have no choice but to tolerate unacceptable behaviour to keep their job. The Government says the changes send a clear message: feeling intimidated, humiliated or unsafe should never be part of anyone’s working day.

Minister for the Future of Work, Kate Dearden said: “No one should have to put up with sexual harassment. From today, employers must start taking stronger action to protect their staff, listening when people speak up and acting before problems emerge.

“I pay tribute to the campaigners whose tireless work today delivers the raise in standards to make sure everyone, whatever their job, can go to work and feel safe.”

Under the new rules, employers must now take all reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment of their staff before it occurs. This could include practical measures like having a clear reporting policy or training staff on handling difficult situations.

Protections have also been strengthened for workers facing all forms of harassment from third parties. Going beyond protections for harassment between colleagues, the law will now apply to clients and customers too.

Whether that is a passenger harassing a bus driver, a waiter being intimidated by diners, or a shop worker dealing with abuse from customers, the reforms will ensure that unacceptable behaviour is not treated as part of the job.

Minister for Women and Equalities, Bridget Phillipson said: “Too many women are being forced to live smaller lives because of the scourge of misogyny, and that includes in the workplace.

“Strengthening the law to better protect women at work is an essential step as we work to shift attitudes and build a society where women can live freely not cowed by harassment and abuse.

“We’re working hand-in-hand with businesses to stamp out misogyny, with our new Misogyny Prevention Fund driving further action through programmes like youth mentoring, workplace training, and nationwide campaigns.”

New measures to support workplace dialogue also start from today, with trade unions gaining strengthened rights for their representatives, as well as stronger rights to access workplaces and secure recognition.

These form part of the Government “resetting” industrial relations and will allow trade unions to educate people about their rights, support conversations between employers and workers, resolve issues before they escalate, and facilitate conditions for a more satisfied workforce. Evidence suggests that more satisfied workers are more productive.

 
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