To be sexual harassment, the unwanted behaviour must have either:

• violated someone's dignity
• created an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment for someone

It can be sexual harassment if the behaviour:

• has one of these effects even if it was not intended
• intended to have one of these effects even if it did not have that effect

(Source: https://www.acas.org.uk/sexual-harassment)

Examples of sexual harassment

Sexual harassment guide Sexual Harassment Guide | NHS Scotland

Acas What sexual harassment is - Sexual harassment - Acas

Sexual misconduct What is sexual misconduct? | University of Surrey

Sexual Harassment and the Law

Sexual harassment could be considered a criminal offence if there is stalking, physical assault, indecent exposure or cyber harassment.

Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC)

On 30 October, the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) published the updated guidance on harassment at work, and also updated 8-step guide for employers on preventing workplace sexual harassment

Published: 04/11/2026 15:35