Harassment & the Rise of the ‘Banter’ Defence Explored

Introduction

There is a growing trend in employers relying on ‘workplace banter’ as a defence to harassment claims under the Equality Act 2010.

But what exactly is ‘workplace banter’ and where is the line?

This new virtual classroom seminar will explore where and when the defence of ‘banter’ might be used in response to harassment claims.

Expert speaker Philip Pearson Batt will dive deep into the case law on the ‘banter’ defence in practice, in what are often complex and sensitive claims, and examine how effective it is for employers to rely on this defence.

He will also offer practical tips on how to protect your workplace from office ‘banter’ gone wrong!

What You Will Learn

This live and interactive session will cover the following:

• What is harassment?
• The ‘banter’ defence
• What is it?
• When might it be used?
• How effective it is for employers to rely on this defence?
• Practical steps to prevent harassment in the workplace
• What happens if things go wrong - the consequences of a harassment claim and the reasonable steps defence

Recording of live sessions: Soon after the Learn Live session has taken place you will be able to go back and access the recording - should you wish to revisit the material discussed.