Legal duties and professional standards

Sexual harassment is unacceptable conduct and a matter of law, professional regulation, and employer responsibility. All learners should know the legal framework, the standard of conduct expected in pharmacy, and that prevention must be proactive rather than waiting for a complaint.

What every team member should know

In Great Britain, sexual harassment at work is covered by the Equality Act 2010. Since 26 October 2024, employers have a legal duty to take reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment of workers. For staff, the practical points are: recognise concerning behaviour early, do not minimise it, and follow the correct reporting route.

• Third-party behaviour still matters: sexual harassment by patients, customers, clients, suppliers, or others using the service can create employer liability and must be addressed.
• Professional standards still apply: pharmacy professionals must act respectfully, protect dignity and privacy, and raise concerns about unsafe or inappropriate conduct.
• You do not need to be a manager to act properly: if you notice inappropriate conduct, do not dismiss it as banter; use the reporting route available to you.
• Northern Ireland differs legally: separate equality legislation applies, but the expectation is the same: prevent harassment, take reports seriously, and address incidents promptly and fairly.

Sexual harassment can also breach professional standards. In Great Britain, the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) requires pharmacy professionals to behave professionally, communicate appropriately, respect people, protect privacy and dignity, and speak up when concerned. Northern Ireland’s regulatory standards set the same expectation of respectful professional conduct.

If you are a manager or employer

Sexual harassment is a legal, professional, and cultural issue. Know the standard, notice when behaviour crosses the line, and raise concerns through the right route rather than waiting for it to become more obvious.