Sexual Harassment

Developed in response to changes taking effect on 30 October 2026 under the Employment Rights Act 2025, this course supports employers in Great Britain to take all reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment, including by third parties such as patients, service users and visitors. It helps people working in health and care recognise risks, understand their responsibilities and contribute to safer, more respectful workplaces.

Through realistic scenario you explore how to support someone who shares a concern, keep factual records and use appropriate reporting routes, whether they experience sexual harassment themselves, witness it or hear about it from someone else.

Upon completion of this course, learners will be able to:

• Identify situations in health and care where sexual harassment risks may be higher and the practical measures that can help prevent harm.
• Recognise sexual harassment in face-to-face, digital, social and work-related settings, including harassment by patients, visitors and other third parties.
• Respond appropriately when they experience, witness or are told about sexual harassment, including accessing support and using local reporting routes.
• Explain that certain disclosures about sexual harassment may qualify for whistleblowing protection and recognise the importance of avoiding victimisation or retaliation.
• Identify a range of sources of information, advice and support about sexual harassment and how and when to access that information or ask for advice.

Module 1: Preventing Sexual Harassment

Includes content on:

• Recognising sexual harassment and changing boundaries
• How individuals can contribute to prevention
• Addressing organisational risks, including power imbalances and lone working
• Preventing and managing third-party harassment

Module 2: Recognising and Responding to Sexual Harassment

Includes content on:

• Recognise, Respond, Record and Report
• Applying the Four Rs through a realistic workplace scenario
• Responding when behaviour affects you, is disclosed to you or is witnessed
• Challenging harmful behaviour safely and recognising victimisation