A trainee for National Grid has been awarded almost £360,000 after it was found that her manager sexually harassed her.
The tribunal heard that manager Colin Higgins frequently texted and emailed Emma Tahir, a trainee project supervisor almost 30 years younger than him, repeatedly asking her to remove her jumper and encroaching on her physically.
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The utilities company conducted an internal investigation into allegations of sexual harassment. Despite this, Higgins was allowed to keep his job.
In 2021, Tahir resigned and filed a tribunal claim for sexual harassment, victimisation and constructive wrongful dismissal.
Tahir said that she loved working in construction, but the experience had damaged her career path. She was awarded £357,000 by the tribunal.
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According to Judge Joanna Wade, the £50,000 award included £40,000 for injury to feelings and £10,000 for psychiatric injury.
Daniel Zona, an associate at Collyer Bristow, stated that employers must take reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment, including providing appropriate training and policies.
Zona emphasized the importance of conducting thorough and fair internal investigations in cases of sexual harassment.
Employers must consider the needs and rights of both the alleged victim and perpetrator and take proportionate measures to protect the victim if necessary.
Zona recommended examining company culture when dealing with such incidents.
Discrimination and harassment often occur in workplaces with poor cultures that overlook it.
Improving workplace culture can reduce instances of such behaviour and improve the experience of women and minorities.
Swiftly and robustly dealing with instances of discrimination and harassment, while considering the accused’s rights during any investigation, is a great way to discourage such behaviour generally.
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Sexual harassment is something employers need to take seriously. You do not want to risk the safety of your employees or find yourself being taken to an employment tribunal.
Just like in this case, you could end up at an employment tribunal and cause significant damage to your business’s reputation. You may even have to pay a hefty sum of compensation leaving your business at risk.
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Employers Direct offers FREE HR Advice to businesses of all sizes, within any industry in the UK. Our qualified HR advisors are here to offer your business confidential, in-depth, actionable advice on any HR query or issue you may face.
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