Christmas and sexual harassment – stories from the dark side of the office party

When UNISON launched its Us Too campaign this year, inviting members to speak out about their experiences of sexual harassment, many revealed harassment they had experienced at work Christmas parties. One anonymous member shared her story. “At our team Christmas do last year, my then manager deemed it acceptable to address my eating disorder and state that ‘despite the eating disorder, he would still have a go on me’. He was very touchy with all staff, and I had been told by other staff that ‘this is just how he is’. “To say I was horrified and scared is an understatement. This completely threw me and I froze and felt too scared to speak out. “I addressed this with the senior manager, who talked me out of raising a grievance and instead moved me into a different team. Although moving teams has helped me feel comfortable, as my current manager is a fantastic support, I feel utterly let down in the way this situation was dealt with.” UNISON believes that all people have the right to dignity at work, which sexual harassment clearly violates. The union’s women’s officer, Josie Irwin, commented: “Work Christmas parties can have a dark side. What should be a celebration with colleagues can become an ordeal of sexual innuendo, inappropriate advances, groping and harassing behaviour that threatens your dignity. “Employers should ensure everyone knows the party is an extension of work and the same rules apply – sexual harassment is not a...
Source: UNISON meat hygiene - Category: Food Science Authors: Tags: Article News equalities harassment sexual harassment unison women Source Type: news