Recent changes in UK government legislation have strengthened protections against sexual harassment in the workplace, placing a greater responsibility on employers to prevent harassment before it occurs, rather than simply responding to it once it happens.
At Step Teachers, we are committed to fostering a work environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. Sexual harassment and victimisation have no place in our workplace, whether in the office, on assignment with a client school, on a work-related trip, at social events, or even on social media.
Our Zero-Tolerance Approach
We take a firm stance against any form of sexual harassment or victimisation. It is not only unacceptable but also unlawful. Any individual found to have engaged in such behaviour will face serious consequences, including the termination of work-seeking services or employment. We encourage anyone who experiences or witnesses’ harassment to report it so that appropriate action can be taken.
What Is Sexual Harassment?
Sexual harassment is any unwanted physical, verbal or nonverbal conduct of a sexual nature that creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive environment. This could be:
Unwanted physical contact, including touching or grabbing
Persistent suggestions for sexual activity
Sending or displaying explicit material, including texts, emails, messages.
Inappropriate or suggestive comments or advances
Offensive online communication, including social media posts.
Even if the behaviour is not directed at a specific person, it can still constitute harassment if it affects someone in the workplace.
Reporting Sexual Harassment
If you experience or witness sexual harassment while on assignment at a school, you are encouraged to take action. Here’s what you can do:
Informal Steps
If you feel comfortable, address the issue directly with the person involved and explain that their behaviour is unwelcome. If this is not possible, speak to a senior person at the client school or your Step Teachers consultant for support.
Formal Steps
If informal steps are ineffective, or inappropriate, a formal complaint should be made in writing.
If the harassment occurs on assignment at a school, report it to a senior person at the client school or through your Step Teachers consultant.
If the harassment involves a member of our Company, email your compliant.
You should provide details such as the nature of harassment, dates, times, witnesses and any previous actions taken.
Following a Report of Sexual Harassment
If the harassment occurs on assignment at a school, we will inform the client school of the harassment if it has not been reported to them already and discuss what steps they will be taking to investigate and address the matter.
If the harassment involves a member of our Company, we will investigate the situation.
All reports will be dealt with in a timely, respectful and confidential manner.
Anyone found guilty of sexual harassment will face appropriate action, including the potential termination of work-seeking services or employment. We will protect agency workers and employees who make complaints, ensuring they do not suffer retaliation or victimisation.
What you can do to help
Preventing sexual harassment is a shared responsibility. Whether you are an agency worker, a school employee, or an external contractor, you play a crucial role in fostering a respectful workplace. This includes:
Calling out inappropriate behaviour when safe to do so.
Supporting colleagues who may be affected.
Reporting concerns to the appropriate channels.
Together, we can make a difference.
Commitment to Change
Step Teachers reviews our policies annually and conducts anonymous surveys to ensure they remain effective and relevant. By working together, we can create a safer, more respectful environment for everyone in the education sector.
A Heartfelt Thank You
We’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who took the time to complete our recent survey. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us continue to improve our policies and create a safer, more supportive environment for all.
Support
Your well-being is our top priority, and we’re here to help. If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual harassment, there are organisations that you can reach out to for support:
SARSAS: Helpline: 0808 801 0456 or visit their website here
Samaritans: Helpline: 0808 164 0123 or visit their website here
Step Perks: If you are a registered agency worker or employee with Step Teachers, you have access to a 24/7 employee helpline, which also includes a free counselling service. Just login to your Step Perks account to access this.
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