Key Points

Please take a moment to review these points, reflect on their significance and consider how they apply to your own experiences.

Tick to confirm (optional):

• Sexual harassment is unwanted sexual conduct and should be treated with zero tolerance.
• Immediately protect patients and the recipient by removing the alleged perpetrator from patient-facing duties if necessary.
• Preserve evidence from digital channels (screenshots, timestamps, chat logs) and document all actions.
• Initiate formal processes promptly while offering support (EAP, occupational health, adjusted rotas) to the affected colleague.
• Use clear management instructions to set boundaries pending investigation and record the rationale for decisions.
• Risk-manage staffing (prevent lone working with the sender) and consider legal thresholds such as the Protection from Harassment Act.
• Treat retaliation or victimisation as a separate breach and respond accordingly.
• Outcomes should be documented, proportionate to findings, and followed by monitoring to prevent recurrence.