31 - Freedom: Tackling workplace harassment, law changes, and building safer cultures

Trigger warning: This episode discusses sexual harassment, sexual assault, and related experiences in the workplace.In this episode of The F Word, we sit down with Joe Nicholls, Partner and Employment Lawyer at Stephens Scown, to talk about Freedom, specifically, Freedom from sexual harassment at work.With over 15 years’ experience in employment law, Joe leads on employment tribunals and disputes, helping both businesses and individuals navigate some of the most challenging issues in the workplace. He explains recent and upcoming legal changes, why they matter, and how employers can take meaningful steps to create safer, Fairer environments.Here's what you can listen to (or watch) in this ep: • What the law currently says about harassment and discrimination under the Equality Act 2010 • The new proactive duty for employers to prevent sexual harassment – and what ‘reasonable steps’ really mean • The controversial return of employer liability for harassment by third parties (e.g. customers, suppliers, guests) • Extended time limits for bringing harassment claims, and what that means in practice • How businesses can proactively assess risk, update policies, and Foster a culture of safety and respect • Why prevention is better than tribunal, for people, reputation, and long-term business healthJoe reminds us that this isn’t just about compliance: "It is about fundamentally trying to protect your people and protect your culture. The consequence of that is a good news story for you: it’s about reputation, retention, and the ability to recruit."Enjoy episode 31 of The F Word.Find out more Stephens Scown LLPstephens-scown.co.ukInstagram: @stephens_scown ⬅️ https://www.instagram.com/stephens_scown/LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/josephcnicholls  The Fawcett Society – Sexual Harassment Research   ⬅️ https://www.fawcettsociety.org.uk/tackling-sexual-harassment-in-the-workplace For more episodes, head to whyfield.co.uk/podcastsAnd… For more From us, Find us on all socials at @whyfield