THE north’s Labour Relations Agency has revealed the number of calls it has received related to sexual harassment in the workplace has increased by 52% in the past year.
The employment relations body anticipates the volume of calls to its workplace information service will rise by a further 35% by the end of the year.
LRA chief executive Mark McAllister said the surge in calls follows recent allegations against a number of high-profile presenters and celebrities, such as Mohamed Al-Fayed, with organisations being accused of cover-up and ‘blind-eye’ management.
He has called on business and organisational leaders to prioritise ‘culture’ if they’re to tackle what he said is an escalating problem.
“With the ending of violence against women and girls a government priority, it is inconceivable that gateway behaviour such as sexual harassment and abuse of power goes unchecked for so long,” said the labour relations boss.
“Whether it’s an imbalanced power relationship, regarded as an ‘open secret’, fear of backlash, ‘his word against hers’, passed off as a bit of harmless banter, or a case of ‘protecting the prized asset’, the reality is these problems are not addressed and shameful workplace practices are putting staff, who are mostly female, at unacceptable risk.”
While he said policies and procedures are vital, Mr McAllister has challenged organisations to create a positive, inclusive and safe workplace culture.
“Those affected, and their colleagues, including men, must be empowered to call out inappropriate or abusive behaviour,” he added.
“And if raised, complaints must be tackled head on and properly investigated.”
With the Christmas party season under way, the LRA is also reminding businesses that the office party counts as an extension of work and the laws covering discrimination still apply.
“Once again, it all relates to company culture, as this is the bedrock of an organisation.
“Setting the tone from the top and being crystal clear on the zero-tolerance approach, whatever the occasion, sends out a clear message about what is appropriate and how such issues will be dealt with.”
