Embedded Files
Harassment is where someone creates an atmosphere that makes you feel uncomfortable - this could be because you feel offended, intimidated or humiliated.
If you’re being bullied, your situation might also be harassment under the Equality Act 2010. If it is, you can take action under that law. If the bullying isn't harassment under the Equality Act you might be able to deal with the problem another way.
It might be harassment if someone's:
verbally abused you
asked very personal questions, for example about your disability or religion
put up posters that make you feel uncomfortable
made rude physical gestures or facial expressions towards you
told you jokes of a sexual nature
made comments you find offensive, for example on social media
If your colleagues say the behaviour was just friendly banter, it might still be harassment if it meets the definition of harassment in the Equality Act.
You don't have to have a written contract for your employer to be responsible for discrimination against you. You’re covered by the law if you’re:
an employee
an apprentice
working under an agreement with them that you’ll personally do work and they’ll pay you for it
a former employee
This includes casual and zero hours workers and some self-employed people and freelancers.
There are extra rules to protect people who are employed by one business but work for another, such as agency workers.
What are the 9 Protected characteristics?
Watch the video which explains what these are.
If you have any concerns in relation to bullying or harassment speak with your Progress Coach/Trainer
Page updated
Report abuse