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ARTICLE · 28 OCTOBER 2026

New Workplace Harassment Duties: Is Your Organisation Ready?

BTO Solicitors LLP
BTO Solicitors LLP
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BTO Solicitors LLP

BTO Solicitors LLP

BTO is an independent Scottish law firm based in Glasgow, Edinburgh and Helensburgh, which has...

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The Employment Rights Act 2025 introduces a significantly higher standard for preventing workplace sexual harassment, requiring employers to take "all reasonable steps" rather than merely "reasonable steps." This shift demands comprehensive risk assessments, tailored policies, and proactive measures across all workplace interactions, including third-party conduct. Organizations must now demonstrate not just that action was taken, but that they considered and implemented the full range of available preventat

United KingdomEmployment and HR
Lesley Grant
Lesley Grant
Dawn Robertson
Dawn Robertson

The Employment Rights Act 2025 marks a significant change in how employers must address workplace harassment. The emphasis is moving decisively from responding to complaints after the event to preventing problems before they arise. Organisations will be expected to understand their particular risks, take meaningful action and demonstrate that their approach is effective in practice.

Preparation should therefore start now. Employers should review their risk assessments, policies, reporting routes and training, and ensure that managers can recognise concerns and respond with confidence. We are already helping clients assess their current arrangements and deliver practical, tailored training. Below, we explain the key changes, the main areas of risk and how we can support organisations to prepare.

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