Most LGBT people have been sexually harassed at work, study suggests

Most lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people are being sexually harassed at work, a new study suggests, leading to calls for a new duty on employers to protect their staff.

Almost seven out of 10 LGBT workers surveyed by the TUC said they faced sexual harassment and even assault, including unwelcome comments or advances.

Most of those affected said they did not tell their employer, sometimes for fear of being “outed” at work.

LGBT women were more likely to suffer unwanted touching or even sexual assault or attempts to kiss them.

Around one in six of those affected said being harassed at work had affected their mental health and a similar number had left their job as a result.

TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady said: “This research reveals a hidden epidemic.

“In 2019 LGBT people should be safe and supported at work, but instead they’re experiencing shockingly high levels of sexual harassment and assault.

“Workplace culture needs to change. No-one should think that a colleague being LGBT is an invitation for sexualised comments or inappropriate questions, let alone serious acts of assault.

“Government must change the law to put the responsibility for preventing harassment on employers, not victims.”

The report was based on a survey of more than 1,000 LGBT workers.

A spokesman for the Government Equalities Office said: “It is appalling LGBT people are suffering this harassment. Workplaces should be safe, supportive environments for everybody.

“The Government will consult shortly on how we can strengthen and clarify existing laws on third-party harassment, as well as making sure employers fully understand their legal responsibility to protect their staff.”

Claire McCartney of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development said: “It’s time for businesses to take a stand against the worryingly high levels of sexual harassment experienced by the LGBT community.

“There is simply no room for the harassment of any individual at work and every one of us should be treated with dignity and respect.”