Increase in workplace sex discrimination claims, study suggests

The number of sex discrimination claims by workers has increased by 69% to a five-year high, new research suggests.

More than 9,300 claims were made in the past year, with women increasingly likely to come forward since the start of the MeToo movement, said employment lawyers GQ Littler.

Moves by companies to tackle sex discrimination, such as banning alcohol at work-related events, or discouraging hugging, are not preventing claims being made, said the law firm.

Hannah Mahon of GQ Littler said:

The increase in sex discrimination claims will raise questions over whether employers are doing enough to stamp out inappropriate behaviour in the workplace.

It’s clear that more needs to be done to eliminate discrimination. However, some rules, such as those that prohibit social interactions between members of the opposite sex, need to be carefully thought through and implemented with care.

There is a balance to be struck between effective anti-discrimination measures and measures that can marginalise women, for example by excluding them from work-related social activities or making it more difficult for them to receive mentoring.”