Your Rights If You’re Facing Harassment at Work

Learn what to do if you’re being bullied, intimidated, or discriminated against by your employer or coworkers — and how to report it safely.

You Deserve to Feel Safe at Work

Work should be a place where you feel respected and protected, not anxious or afraid. But for too many people in the UK, bullying, intimidation, or unwanted behaviour have become part of their daily routine. If you’re being harassed — whether through words, actions, or unfair treatment — it’s important to know: ➡️ You have legal rights. ➡️ You don’t have to face it alone. ➡️ Help is available — confidentially and free of charge.

What Counts as Harassment at Work?

Under the Equality Act 2010, harassment is any unwanted behaviour related to a protected characteristic that violates your dignity or creates an intimidating, hostile, or humiliating environment.

Protected characteristics include:

Sex or gender

Race, ethnicity, or nationality

Disability

Religion or belief

Sexual orientation

Age

Gender reassignment

Harassment can also include sexual comments, threats, bullying, exclusion, physical behaviour, or unfair workload or treatment designed to undermine you.

Even if it’s “just words” or “banter,” if it makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, it counts.

1. Keep a Record

If you can, start writing down what’s happening. Note dates, times, names, what was said or done, and any witnesses. Keep copies of messages, emails, or screenshots. This documentation can be vital if you need to make a complaint or claim later.

2. Speak to Someone You Trust

If it feels safe to do so:

Talk to a manager, HR, or trade union representative.

If the person harassing you is your manager, go to someone higher or use an anonymous HR channel.

Some workplaces have whistleblowing hotlines or confidential reporting systems.

If you’re unsure how to approach this, you can use Lawgality’s anonymous chatbot first to get guidance and rehearse what to say.

💬 Chat Anonymously Now

3. Raise a Formal Grievance

If informal steps don’t stop the behaviour, you can make a formal complaint (called a “grievance”). Your employer must take it seriously and follow a fair process.

You can learn more about this from ACAS — the UK’s workplace rights body. Their site includes templates and guidance on writing a grievance letter.

4. If Things Don’t Change: Employment Tribunal

If your employer fails to act, or if the harassment leads to your resignation or dismissal, you may be able to take your case to an Employment Tribunal. This can include claims of:

Harassment under the Equality Act

Constructive dismissal

Victimisation for speaking up

You’ll usually need to contact ACAS Early Conciliation within three months of the incident.

If you can’t afford legal representation, organisations like LawWorks, Citizens Advice, and Law Centres can connect you with free employment law specialists.

5. Get Emotional and Legal Support

Harassment isn’t just a legal issue — it’s an emotional one. If you’re feeling scared, anxious, or isolated, reach out for help:

Support Contact

Lawgality Chatbot Chat Anonymously — free, 24/7 confidential help

ACAS Helpline0300 123 1100

Mind (mental health)mind.org.uk

Citizens Advicecitizensadvice.org.uk

Law Centres Networklawcentres.org.uk

You’re Not Overreacting — You’re Being Brave

Standing up to harassment can feel intimidating, especially when it comes from someone with power. But you’re not overreacting. You’re protecting your right to work without fear, abuse, or humiliation. Even taking the first step — like reading this — is an act of strength.

💬 Ready to talk? Chat anonymously now — it’s free, private, and available 24/7.

Disclaimer

Lawgality offers unregulated legal services in England and Wales and is not authorised or regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). Information provided is for guidance only and not a substitute for independent legal advice.