Policy preview

This policy explains: 

• what sexual harassment and victimisation are; 

• where and when this Policy applies, including work-related social events and online spaces; 

• how concerns or complaints can be raised; 

• how complaints should be handled fairly, promptly and confidentially; and 

• what may happen if the Policy is breached. 

This Policy applies to all working relationships in the screen industries, including workers, freelancers, contractors, trainees, volunteers and anyone else engaged in work-related activities. It covers behaviour in the workplace, during work-related social events, business travel, online communications and any situation connected to your business. 

This Policy should be read as both a statement of expectations and a practical guide for recognising, preventing and responding to unacceptable conduct. 

This Policy is for all screen businesses with:  

• freelancers, contractors and workers;  

• senior leaders, managers, and supervisors; 

• trainees, interns and volunteers. 

The screen industries often involve freelance work, short-term contracts, power imbalances and informal working environments, making it especially important that expectations around behaviour are clear, consistent and widely understood. 

This Policy sits alongside our Dignity at Work Policy, which is designed to address a wider range of inappropriate behaviours at work, including bullying, harassment and discrimination. For smaller businesses, a Dignity at Work Policy may be sufficient on its own to set expectations and provide a clear framework for raising concerns. It also sits alongside our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy and our Anti-Bullying Policy.  

It also works alongside:  

• Acas Code on equality and wellbeing; 

• an employee sexual harassment Policy; 

• internal reporting and complaints procedures; 

• management procedures; and 

• contracts and terms of engagement. 

This Policy is not intended to:  

• act as a substitute for legal advice; 

• be used for employees; 

• be used maliciously or in bad faith; or 

• exist simply to demonstrate compliance, without being properly implemented. 

Sexual harassment is unlawful and can be deeply harmful to an individuals’ wellbeing and their personal and professional life. In the screen industries, where work is often freelance, short-term, and fast-paced, it is especially important that everyone knows what behaviour is expected and how to raise concerns safely. 

Everyone covered by this Policy has a responsibility to uphold its principles and contribute to a respectful working environment.