One Year On: How the Worker Protection Act is Shaping Safer Workplaces

October 2025 marks a year since the Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Act came into force. The law shifted responsibility from reactive to proactive, requiring all employers to take reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment.

Workplace harassment remains a significant problem: 40% of women and 18% of men report experiencing harassment in their careers, with even higher rates among disabled women and LGBTQIA+ employees. Yet nearly 80% of incidents go unreported.

What Employers Must Do:
Compliance isn’t just about avoiding penalties. Employers must actively prevent harassment through:

Clear, up-to-date policies

Effective reporting channels, including anonymous options

Comprehensive staff training

Leadership modeling and prompt action

Workplace Protection Awareness (WPA) training equips employees and leaders to prevent harassment, understand reporting processes, and demonstrate compliance—reducing risk and supporting a respectful culture.

In 2025, a national media sales company faced a £30,000 settlement after failing to prevent harassment, highlighting the importance of proactive action.

Take Action:
The Employment Rights Act is expected to increase the duties of employers further, making ongoing compliance and preventative steps essential.

Itec is offering free bite-sized webinars with expert trainer Will Baker to explore compliance, lessons learned, and how to prepare for upcoming legal changes.

📅 25 Nov, 13:00 or 3 Dec, 12:30
[Register for Your Free Webinar]

One year on, the message is clear: creating a safe, respectful workplace isn’t optional—it’s the law. Proactive steps today will protect your people, your reputation, and your business.