This year, Australia has witnessed the catastrophe that work event misbehaviour can cause. A rape case (between two politicians) made headlines for much of the year.
In advance of this year’s party season throughout the world, timeTo is reminding the industry to be respectful and stay safe, with a comprehensive guide for harassment-free festive celebrations. This guide aimed at workers, senior leaders, managers and employees provides valuable information and resources to help all party attendees understand their rights, recognise inappropriate behaviour, and take necessary action if needed.
It also emphasises the importance of understanding and preventing sexual harassment during work-related events and parties with practical advice for attendees and employers, outlining clear steps to promote a positive and safe atmosphere for everyone.
In the UK, the guide’s launch follows the new The Worker Protection Act 2023 (Amendment of Equality Act 2010, which came into force in the UK on October 26 2024. The legislation mandates employers to proactively prevent sexual harassment of workers, covering harassment between workers and by third parties. Non-compliance is a legal breach, subject to enforcement by the Equality and Human Rights Commission can take enforcement action. Additionally, if an individual’s claim of sexual harassment is successful, an employment tribunal may increase the amount of compensation awarded.
The guide covers essential topics including:
Key Points for Attendees
- Knowing Your Rights and Company Policies: Familiarise yourself with your company’s policies on sexual harassment, including reporting procedures and available support.
- Practice Self-Awareness and Respect Boundaries: Be mindful of your behaviour, avoid touching or making sexualised comments without explicit consent, and be aware of power dynamics.
- Stay Safe and Support Each Other: Have a support system in place, look out for each other, and speak up against inappropriate behaviour if it’s safe to do so.
- Seek Help If Needed: If you experience or witness harassment, document incidents, confide in a trusted colleague or manager, and report to the appropriate authorities.
- Celebrate Diversity and Inclusion: Respect people of all genders, backgrounds, and identities, and avoid discriminatory behaviour or language that could create a hostile environment.
Key Points for Employers, Senior Leaders and HR
- Manage risk, establish clear policies and procedures: Ensuring policies include anti-harassment guidance, consequences for such behaviour, and clear procedures for reporting incidents.
- Educate and Train Staff: Provide regular training on sexual harassment and appropriate conduct, and encourage staff to understand their rights and responsibilities. timeTo has training available.
- Designate Points of Contact: Appoint specific individuals or teams as contacts for any concerns related to harassment during parties, and make their information easily accessible.
- Plan for Safety: Choose safe venues, provide guidance on safe travel, encourage group travel, and clarify the expenses policy for travel and accommodation.
- Offer Support Resources: Provide access to counselling services or support groups for those affected by harassment, and follow up with affected employees to ensure they receive necessary support. NABS’ resources and support via their Advice Line are available to anyone in our industry affected by harassment.
Pippa Glucklich, chair of timeTo, commented, “As we approach the festive season, it’s crucial that we all help create a joyful atmosphere without the shadow of sexual harassment. Our Party Season guide is designed to help everyone enjoy the festivities while feeling safe and respected. We want to guide people on maintaining a positive environment and remind them that support is available if they are affected by harassment. Let’s work together to ensure this festive season is memorable for all the right reasons.”
This timeTo Festive Party Guide is for guidance only and should not be used as a substitute for specific legal advice.
