sexual harassment in the workplace

What is sexual harassment in the workplace?

Sexual harassment in the workplace is a serious and unacceptable issue affecting many people. It can take many forms, including unwanted physical contact, verbal or written sexual advances, and sharing or displaying sexual material in the workplace.

No one should have to endure this type of behaviour at work, and it is important to understand your rights and options if you have experienced sexual harassment.

If you have been the victim of sexual harassment at work, speaking up and acting is important.

We can help you understand your rights and options and guide you through seeking justice and holding the responsible parties accountable. Don’t suffer in silence – get the help you need and deserve.

Types of Sexual Harassment in the Workplace

Sexual harassment in the workplace can take many forms. Some examples of behaviours that may constitute sexual harassment include:

These are just a few examples of behaviours that may constitute sexual harassment in the workplace. 

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How We Can Help with sexual harassment in the Workplace

If you have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace, our law firm can assist you in taking legal action to hold the responsible parties accountable and seek justice.

Our team of experienced solicitors deeply understands the laws surrounding sexual harassment in the workplace and can help you navigate the process of making a claim.

We can provide you with information about your rights, help you gather and present evidence, and represent you in any legal proceedings that may be necessary.

Making a sexual harassment claim can be emotionally and financially stressful. That’s why we are committed to providing compassionate and understanding support to our clients throughout the process.

We will work closely with you to ensure your rights are protected and you receive the justice you deserve.

If you have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace, don’t suffer in silence. Contact our Employment Matters today to learn more about how we can assist you with making a claim.

“I am so glad I stood up for myself. Not about the money, sure that was nice, but it wasn’t about that. Big companies like that need to respect women, not condone harassment and bury it when it comes to light. If they don’t then who will?.”
LD, Waterford

The Remedies for sexual harassment

Sexual harassment in the workplace is a serious issue that can cause significant distress and harm to the victim. In Ireland, various laws and regulations prevent and address sexual harassment in the workplace. If you are a victim of sexual harassment, there are several remedies available to you.

 

  1. Informal resolution: If you feel comfortable doing so, you can resolve the issue informally. You can speak to the person responsible for the harassment and ask them to stop. If the harassment comes from a colleague, you can also talk to your manager or HR representative. Sometimes, the person may not have been aware that their behaviour was causing discomfort or offence and may stop it once it is brought to their attention.
  2. Formal complaint: If you cannot resolve the issue informally or if the harassment continues, you can formally complain to your employer. The complaint should be in writing and detail the behaviour that is causing the harassment. The employer is legally obligated to investigate the complaint promptly and ensure that the harassment does not continue.
  3. Legal action: If the harassment persists after making a formal complaint, you may need to consider legal action. You can bring a claim under the Employment Equality Acts 1998-2015, which prohibits sexual harassment in the workplace. You can also make a claim under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, which requires employers to ensure their employees’ safety, health, and welfare.
  4. Support services: Several support services are available to victims of sexual harassment. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) provides information and advice to employees who believe they are being harassed. The WRC can also assist with mediation or conciliation between the parties involved. You can also seek support from your GP, a counsellor, or a support organisation such as the Rape Crisis Network Ireland or the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre.
 

It is important to remember that sexual harassment is never your fault, and you have the right to a safe and respectful workplace. If you are a victim of sexual harassment, do not suffer in silence. Speak to someone you trust or seek support from the resources available to you.

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sexual harassment

How Employment Matters Can Assist You

If you have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace, our law firm can assist you in taking legal action to hold the responsible parties accountable and seek justice.

Our team of experienced solicitors deeply understands the laws surrounding sexual harassment in the workplace and can help you navigate the process of making a claim.

We can provide you with information about your rights, help you gather and present evidence, and represent you in any legal proceedings that may be necessary.

Making a sexual harassment claim can be emotionally and financially stressful. That’s why we are committed to providing compassionate and understanding support to our clients throughout the process.

We will work closely with you to ensure your rights are protected and you receive the justice you deserve.

If you have experienced sexual harassment in the workplace, don’t suffer in silence. Contact our Employment Matters today to learn more about how we can assist you with making a claim.

Sexual Harassment Workplace FAQs

Sexual harassment is “unwanted conduct of a sexual nature” that affects you at work. Many behaviours count as sexual harassment, such as unnecessary touching, brushing against another employee’s body, assault and more.

Sexual harassment in the workplace can make work extremely difficult. You may feel the following:

  • Feel Anxious
  • Want to stay away from work 
  • Lose confidence in yourself and your work
  • Experience headaches and sleep problems
  • Be less productive

Read up on your workplace policy on sexual harassment. Write down a record of anything that’s happened. Be very specific and write down any details you remember and how you managed the harassment. It can be used to make a formal complaint. 

There are several “unwanted conducts” that fall under the Act, such as:

  • Pictures and other material
  • Offensive gestures
  • Spoken words
  • Unwelcome or offensive e-mails, screensavers, etc.

How does it work?

Do you have a claim?

We start by establishing whether or not you have a claim.

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Then, if you do and you want to pursue it, we’ll help guide you through the complex process of making that claim.

Don't delay!

That said, you only have a limited time to lodge your complaint to the WRC or Labour Court, so act fast.

Don't Suffer in Silence

Contact us today to speak to one of our employment law experts. Take the first step towards justice.