Sexual harassment is unwanted conduct of a sexual nature which is intended to, or has the effect of, violating a person’s dignity or creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment. Women are most likely to be victim-survivors of sexual harassment, and it often involves a power differential (e.g. a consultant harassing a doctor in training), but anyone can be a victim of sexual harassment from any other member of staff.
Sexual harassment can take place inside or outside of working hours and/or the workplace, and can happen face-to-face, online (chat, email) and/or by phone (calls and texts). This can include inappropriate messages, photos or videos, or taking Teams calls while dressed inappropriately or in an inappropriate place (e.g. from bed).
Sexual harassment can include anything from unwanted physical contact (e.g. touching a knee or the lower back) to sexual comments, jokes or messages, to sexual assault.
You can find resources and support for victim-survivors, allies, and those who might be questioning their behaviour on the Medical Education Directorate (MED) Sexual Misconduct Resources page.
