TUC research reveals prevalent sexual harassment, bullying, and verbal abuse among women, with most incidents unreported.

A recent survey by the Trades Union Congress (TUC) has found that two-thirds of young women have experienced sexual harassment, bullying, or verbal abuse at work. The study, which involved 1,000 women, highlighted that many victims choose not to report such incidents due to concerns that they would not be believed or fears it could harm their careers.

Among respondents, almost two-thirds of women aged 25 to 34 reported experiencing harassment or abuse in the workplace. Many of these instances were recurring, with more than three in five women noting that they had faced three or more incidents of bullying.

While most of these abusive behaviours occurred on work premises, they were also reported to happen through digital communication channels such as text messages, emails, social media, and virtual meetings. However, fewer than one in three women who experienced harassment chose to inform their employer. For those who remained silent, key reasons included fears of disbelief, not being taken seriously, and potential negative impacts on work relationships or career advancement.

Paul Nowak, TUC General Secretary, stated: “No woman should have to endure sexual harassment, yet such incidents continue to plague workplaces. Many women, particularly those in public-facing roles like retail or healthcare, suffer regular abuse from customers and patients. This behaviour has no place in any modern work environment.”

Mr Nowak further criticised ministers for delaying new legislation designed to prevent workplace harassment and tackle abuse from customers and clients. He claimed that political backsliding, driven by pressure from backbenchers, threatens to derail these necessary protections.

In response, a spokesperson for the Government’s Equality Hub commented: “Harassment in any form is unacceptable. The Worker Protection Bill aims to strengthen workplace harassment protections. We acknowledge concerns raised by some members of Parliament about balancing free speech and tackling harassment, and amendments have been made to address this. Further adjustments will be reviewed as the Bill progresses through Parliament.”