Why the Amendments to the UK Equality Act Make Shout-Up! Certification More Important Than Ever

With recent updates to the UK Equality Act 2010, now is a crucial time for venues across the country to take proactive steps in creating safer, harassment-free environments—not only for customers but for their staff as well. The Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) introduces new duties for employers, meaning a Shout-Up! certification is an essential tool for venues committed to upholding these standards.

What Are the New Amendments?

The Worker Protection Amendment strengthens existing protections against sexual harassment in the workplace. The key changes include:

• Employer Duty: Employers are now legally required to take ‘reasonable steps’ to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace. This duty extends beyond merely reacting to complaints; it calls for active, preventative measures to ensure that all staff members can work in a safe environment.

• Increased Penalties: If a tribunal finds that an employer has breached this duty, it now has the power to increase compensation awarded to victims by up to 25%. This significant penalty highlights the importance of compliance and the need for employers to adopt a proactive approach.

For venues operating in the night-time economy, these changes mean that front-line staff and management must be equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to identify, prevent, and respond effectively to sexual harassment..

Why Shout-Up! Certification Matters

Shout-Up! certification is more than just a badge of honour—it’s a commitment to creating safer spaces for both customers and staff. With the new legal amendments, Shout-Up! certification becomes an invaluable asset for venues aiming to comply with the Equality Act and demonstrate their dedication to a proactive, harassment-free culture.

Here’s why Shout-Up! certification is now more crucial than ever:

1. Proactive Prevention
   Shout-Up! provides training that goes beyond the basics, equipping staff with the tools they need to recognise early signs of harassment and take action before incidents escalate. This proactive approach aligns perfectly with the new legal requirements for employers to take reasonable steps to prevent harassment.

2. Creating a Safe and Inclusive Workplace
   Venues with Shout-Up! certification show their commitment to staff well-being by creating a safe working environment where harassment is not tolerated. This boosts staff morale and retention, as employees are likelier to stay in a workplace where they feel valued and protected. Moreover, it helps venues attract a diverse, inclusive workforce—an important factor in building a successful business.

3. Demonstrating Compliance and Reducing Legal Risk
   By achieving Shout-Up! certification, venues can demonstrate to regulators, staff, and customers that they are taking their legal duties seriously. The training and ongoing support provided through the certification process ensure that venues are compliant with the new amendments and prepared to handle any incidents that may arise. This reduces the risk of legal disputes and the associated financial and reputational costs.

4. Setting a Standard for the Night-Time Economy
   The night-time economy should be a place where everyone—staff and patrons alike—can feel safe and respected. Shout-Up! certification helps set the standard, ensuring that certified venues are recognised as industry leaders. Venues that undergo this process demonstrate their commitment to fostering an environment where harassment is actively prevented, making them a preferred choice for staff and customers.

How Shout-Up! Certification Works

Achieving Shout-Up! certification involves a comprehensive programme that includes staff training, management support, and a commitment to maintaining a harassment-free culture. Our training modules cover:

• Recognising different types of harassment, including verbal, physical, and non-verbal behaviours.

• Equipping staff with strategies to safely intervene in incidents.

• Providing management with the tools needed to create and maintain policies that uphold a zero-tolerance approach.

Certification also involves regular assessments and refreshers, ensuring the knowledge and practices stay current and effective.

Take Action: Why Now Is the Time to Get Certified

With the Worker Protection amendment now in force, employers must ensure they are compliant and taking necessary steps to prevent harassment. Shout-Up! certification offers a structured, effective approach to helping venues meet these requirements, protect their staff, and foster a culture of safety and respect.

If you’re a venue owner or manager, now is the time to act. Certification will help you comply with the new legal standards and position your venue as a leader in creating safe and inclusive spaces for all.

WHAT NEXT?

Join the movement to end harassment in the night-time economy. By becoming Shout-Up! certified, you’re taking a stand for your staff, customers, and business. If you’re managing a venue that operates in the night-time economy and you’re based in Newcastle, Northamptonshire, or Torbay, you may be able to become certified for free.

If you are based outside of these areas, contact us to see how we could work together.