Under-reporting

Sexual harassment is massively under-reported. A TUC poll for the Still just a bit of banter? report found that four in five women did not report the sexual harassment to their employer. Reasons given varied from concern that it would impact negatively on relationships at work (28%); thinking they would not be believed or taken seriously (24%); and simply being too embarrassed (20%).

From a rep’s point of view it is worth noting that 12% did not know how to report the unwanted sexual behaviour; 9% were unaware that they could report the harassment; and a further 8% thought they would be blamed.

When the behaviour was reported to the employer only 6% of the women surveyed said it was taken seriously and dealt with satisfactorily. The poll found that nearly three-quarters of those who had reported being sexually harassed said there was no change, and 16% reported that they were treated worse as a result.

Making a complaint about sexual harassment can be very difficult. Many people who have been sexually harassed blame themselves and/or are worried about the consequences of making a complaint. They may also have concerns about how well the union or management will deal with the problem.

According to the CWU communication workers’ guidance How to deal with harassment, by the time someone comes forward they may already be suffering from:

• stress;

• distrust;

• fear;

• emotional distress;

• embarrassment; and/or

• low self esteem.