Sexual harassment
Sexual harassment is defined as unwanted behaviour of a sexual nature which has the purpose or effect of violating an individual’s dignity. This can make an individual feel intimidated, degraded or humiliated; creating a hostile or offensive environment in which to live, learn or work.
Sexual harassment also occurs if an individual treats a person less favourably because that person has rejected or submitted to unwanted conduct of a sexual nature. It also applies to harassment that is related to an individual’s gender identity or sex.
Sexual violence is any sexual act or attempt to obtain a sexual act by violence, coercion or persuasion which takes place without consent. Actions or behaviour which may be considered sexual harassment or sexual violence include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Sexual comments or jokes
- Touching and sexual assault including groping
- Unwelcome sexual advances
- Displaying or showing material of a pornographic or sexual nature
- Making requests for sexual favours
- Stalking in person or online,
- Rape
- Online harassment such as intimidating, offensive, or graphic posts on social media sites or chat rooms.
- Sexually explicit communications by email, text, or instant messaging. This includes the taking and sending of sexually explicit images.
Consent is the act of providing permission for something to happen or agreement to do something with a full understanding of the facts. In cases of sexual activity, consent cannot be presumed but must be explicitly given, this should be done verbally at the time rather than electronically. Consent cannot be assumed or taken if it is provided under pressure or in situations where someone is not capable of providing it. It is important to remember that consent can be withdrawn at any time.
Qdos Training Ltd are committed to actively promoting and exemplifying positive behaviour, equality and diversity to create a safe learning and working environment. As part of our commitment, we will listen to, and take seriously, all disclosures of sexual harassment and sexual violence.
How to Report Sexual Harassment or Sexual Violence
All concerns and disclosures can be made to either your tutor or to the safeguarding contact. Your contact will remain confidential unless there is a safeguarding concern. In response to allegations of sexual harassment and/or sexual violence, we will carry out an investigation to determine the appropriate response.
Where an allegation of sexual harassment and/or sexual violence is upheld, this will normally result in disciplinary action up to and including dismissal or removal from courses in more serious cases. Disciplinary action may also be taken if allegations of sexual harassment or sexual violence are found to be malicious. Where appropriate and if deemed necessary, we may have to involve external bodies such as police.
Relevant Legislation
The Protection from Harassment Act 1997 prohibits harassment whatever the cause, with Section 2A specifically referring to stalking.
The Sexual Offences Act 2003 covers all physical forms of sexual abuse, specifically non-consensual sexual activity.
Where to get more Help & Advice
https://rapecrisis.org.uk/get-informed/