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Sexual Harassment Training for Bar Staff
Since 26 October 2024 employers must take reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment of their staff. From 30 October 2026 they must take all reasonable steps, and must not permit harassment of staff by customers and other third parties. Training for bar staff focuses on recognition and response in alcohol serving environments. The EHRC guidance and Acas resources provide practical approaches that small bars can adapt.
Train staff to recognise sexual harassment in a bar setting
Use clear examples from bar work. Unwanted comments about appearance, sexual jokes while serving drinks, or persistent staring can meet the definition if they violate dignity or create an offensive environment. Note that alcohol does not remove the duty to act. Cover colleague and customer situations. Keep the session short and interactive. Record attendance and the date.
Practise responses during quiet periods
Role play simple scripts. Show how to decline unwanted attention while continuing service or how to alert a supervisor if a customer persists. Teach staff they can leave the area and seek support. Explain how to report something they witness. Keep notes of the scenarios for future refreshers.
Link training to reporting routes and support
Explain reporting options, including anonymous routes if available. Show where to find the policy and who to contact on each shift. Mention that Acas provides free guidance and a helpline. State that genuine reports will be taken seriously. Follow up with a short reminder or notice behind the bar.
Review training after incidents or seasonal changes
After any report, check if training needs new examples. Run a brief refresher before busy periods such as festivals. Ask staff for feedback. The EHRC recommends regular evaluation of training as part of the preventative duty.
FAQ
How often should bar staff receive sexual harassment training?
At least once a year, with shorter refreshers before high risk periods. New starters should complete it during induction.
Does the training need to cover customer behaviour?
Yes. The preventative duty includes steps to address harassment by third parties such as customers. Training should cover how to recognise and report it.
Take the free 8 question quiz to check your current approach.
The Harassment Duty Kit at £79 includes practical templates and checklists for small hospitality businesses.
Not legal advice.