At Aegis we believe that every workplace should be a place of safety, dignity, and respect. That’s why we’ve taken a bold and necessary step forward by passing a motion to prioritise the prevention of sexual harassment at work.
Sexual harassment is not just inappropriate, it’s harmful, demeaning, and far too often goes unchallenged. It’s time to change that. Following the TUC’s guidance on preventing sexual harassment, we’re putting this issue at the centre of our agenda.
Why Now?
Too many workers, especially women and those in marginalised groups, still face harassment in their daily working lives. Many don’t feel safe reporting it, and others fear the consequences of speaking out. As a union that’s proud to represent and support our members, we refuse to be bystanders.
Aegis the Union’s commitments to prevent sexual harassment:
- Create a zero-tolerance culture
We are working with employers to ensure clear policies are in place that state harassment will not be tolerated. We’ll review existing procedures to make sure they are survivor-centred and easy to access.
- Promote bystander intervention training
We’ll encourage reps and members to participate in bystander training, giving them the tools and confidence to call out inappropriate behaviour, support colleagues, and challenge a culture of silence.
- Support Strong workplace agreements
We’re supporting the TUC campaign for sexual harassment to be addressed proactively in recognition agreements and workplace policies. Prevention must be built into everyday practice, not just addressed after harm is done.
- Provide specialist training for union reps
Union reps are often the first point of contact when a member needs help. We’re rolling out training sessions to equip our reps with the skills and knowledge to support members sensitively and effectively.
- Launch a member awareness campaign
We’re developing a campaign to raise awareness among members of what sexual harassment is, how to report it, and how we as a union will stand by them every step of the way. Knowledge is power and protection.
- Demand employer action
We’ll hold employers accountable. That means pushing for risk assessments that actively consider harassment, especially in high-risk roles or remote working environments, and advocating for the use of the new Worker Protection Act (due to come into effect later this year) which places a duty on employers to prevent sexual harassment.
It’s time to change the culture
Preventing sexual harassment isn’t about a tick-box policy – it’s about changing workplace culture. Aegis is proud to be supporting the TUC directive on this issue as everyone has the right to a workplace free from harassment.
Together, we can build safer, stronger workplaces where everyone is respected, and no one is silenced.
