Creating safer workplaces: The importance of sexual harassment training
Co-written by Caroline Fotheringham, CEO at SARAC and Sophie Allen, SARAC Ambassador from Serrano Media
Sexual harassment in the workplace is something many people are aware of, yet far too often it goes unspoken, unchallenged, or is misunderstood.
For some, it’s an uncomfortable joke that crosses a line. For others, it’s repeated behaviour that slowly erodes confidence, safety, and wellbeing. And for many, especially those with lived experience of trauma, it can be deeply triggering and harmful.
One of the most effective ways organisations can protect their people is through meaningful sexual harassment training. When done well, training helps prevent incidents before they occur by building a clear understanding of what sexual harassment is, and what it isn’t.
It gives employees and managers the confidence to recognise inappropriate behaviour early on, and the practical tools to respond respectfully, reducing harm and preventing situations from escalating.
Good training also plays a vital role in shaping workplace culture. A culture rooted in respect, inclusion, and accountability is one where people feel safer, valued, and able to speak up.
When employees know that unacceptable behaviour will be challenged, not ignored, morale improves, collaboration strengthens, and people are more likely to stay and thrive in their roles.
Bystander intervention training empowers individuals to support colleagues and address issues proactively, rather than feeling helpless or unsure. Another key benefit of training is improved reporting and support for those affected. Many people don’t come forward because they’re unsure whether what they experienced “counts,” or because they fear the consequences of speaking up.
Clear, trauma-informed training demystifies what sexual harassment looks like, explains reporting pathways, and reassures employees of their rights. This helps reduce the hidden number of unreported cases and creates an environment where people don’t have to suffer in silence.
There’s also an important legal and ethical responsibility for employers. In the UK, legislation now places a duty on employers to take reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment, not just respond once harm has already occurred.
Training is a core part of meeting this responsibility. Organisations that can demonstrate proactive measures, such as regular training and clear policies, are better protected against legal risk and employment tribunal claims.
Remember, employers can be held responsible for the actions of employees through ‘vicarious liability.’ Beyond legal considerations, there are very real reputational and financial impacts to consider.
Workplaces known for unsafe or hostile cultures struggle to attract and retain staff and may lose the trust of clients and partners. In contrast, organisations that invest in creating safer, more respectful environments benefit from reduced staff turnover, lower absenteeism, and stronger engagement.
The scale of the issue highlights why this matters: a significant number of UK workers report experiencing or witnessing sexual harassment, while many organisations still offer no training at all, or training that staff themselves rate as ineffective. This gap leaves people unprotected and workplaces exposed.
Did you know that 72% of the UK population have experienced at least one form of sexual harassment in their lifetime, and 43% experienced at least one sexual harassment behaviour in the last 12 months?
At its heart, sexual harassment training isn’t about ticking a box. It’s about care. It’s about protecting people, building trust, and creating environments where everyone feels safe to do their job without fear or discomfort.
For survivors of sexual abuse or sexual violence, a well-trained workplace can make the difference between feeling re-traumatised and feeling supported. At SARAC, we believe safer workplaces lead to healthier people and stronger communities.
Investing in training is one practical, powerful way employers can show that respect, dignity, and wellbeing truly matter. If you’re interested in making your workplace a safer, more respectful environment, SARAC provides specialist Sexual Harassment Training for businesses across the Midlands.
By choosing SARAC to deliver your training, you’re not only investing in your people, but also helping to fund vital support for survivors of sexual abuse. Explore our training packages to learn more and begin your journey towards a safer workplace.