CIPD consultation response: Time off for public duties
Our submission to the Department for Business and Trade
Understand and take action to respond to the impact of the changes to sexual harassment and harassment protection measures employers need to take
From 30 October 2026, employers will be required to take all reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment and ensure harassment of employees by a third party (such as a client or customer) is not permitted. This will involve reviewing policies and procedures as well as developing training and awareness for managers and employees.
On this page you can log in to access member-exclusive resources to help you prepare and lead your organisation's compliance with these changes, including an explainer video, a before and after infographic, a checklist to help you create an action plan to plan, carry out and document steps taken to prevent sexual harassment as well as a flowchart to help you carry out a harassment risk assessment.
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Checklist for CIPD members
Use this checklist to work through areas you need to review to prepare for the launch of the new duty to prevent harassment by third parties.
Checklist for CIPD members
Use this action plan to assess areas to consider, document actions planned and taken and to oversee progress.
Checklist for CIPD members
Use this checklist to ensure that your organisation is taking appropriate steps to maintain compliance with this obligation.
Checklist for CIPD members
Use this checklist to identify steps, assess their reasonableness, and document decisions
Tool for CIPD members
It is important that line managers understand the changes being introduced and the impact these will have on how they manage their teams.
Use this template to outline and talk through any changes to your organisation's policies and processes with line managers.
Explore resources relating to harassment and sexual harassment.
This factsheet outlines what bullying and harassment at work is, and how employers and employees can address the problem
Factsheet on bullying and harassment
Understand the current legislation governing harassment and sexual harassment
Harassment and bullying: UK employment law
This guide provides practical steps for preventing, managing and tackling it within organisations
Sexual harassment guide
Clear and practical advice on the proper use of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) or confidentiality clauses and how to avoid inappropriate use
Guidance on proper use of NDAs
This member-exclusive webinar helps ensure you are prepared to lead your organisation’s compliance
CIPD webinar: Sexual harassment and protection from harassmentPlease note: While every care has been taken in compiling this content, CIPD cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. These notes are not intended to be a substitute for specific legal advice.
Use the tracker to keep up to date with latest timeline and developments
Our submission to the Department for Business and Trade
Keep up to date with what is changing under the Employment Rights Act 2025, the Equality (Race and Disability) Bill and the plan to Make Work Pay
From 30 October 2026, employers will be required to take all reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment and harassment of employees by a third party. Ensure you are prepared to lead your organisation’s compliance with these changes. This webinar is available on-demand to CIPD Members.
Keep up to date with what is changing under the Employment Rights Act 2025, the Equality (Race and Disability) Bill and the plan to Make Work Pay
Legality of sanctioning workers who strike
Keep up to date with the latest employment law developments and proposed future changes
Understand the impact the changes to tribunal time limits will have on your practice