Sexual Harassment Policy

1. Policy Statement:

samanthajhudson.com is committed to creating and maintaining a safe, respectful, and inclusive working environment, free from all forms of harassment, including sexual harassment. We do not tolerate any behaviour that demeans, humiliates, or intimidates individuals based on sex, gender, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.

2. Scope:

This policy applies to all employees, contractors, freelancers, clients, suppliers, and anyone representing or working with samanthajhudson.com in any capacity. It covers workplace settings, online environments, events, communications, and any work-related context.

3. What Constitutes Sexual Harassment?

Sexual harassment is unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature that violates someone’s dignity or creates an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating, or offensive environment. Examples include (but are not limited to):
- Unwelcome sexual advances or propositions
- Comments or jokes of a sexual nature
- Leering or suggestive looks
- Inappropriate touching or physical contact
- Displaying or sharing sexually explicit materials
- Sexual comments about appearance, clothing, or body
- Repeated unwanted social or romantic attention
- Online harassment, including messages, images, or emails of a sexual nature

4. Reporting and Responding:

Anyone who experiences or witnesses sexual harassment is strongly encouraged to report it as soon as possible. Reports can be made to: Samantha Hudson. Reports will be treated seriously, promptly, and confidentially wherever possible.

5. Investigation Process:

All complaints will be investigated in a fair and impartial manner. The process may include:
- Informal resolution (where appropriate and requested)
- Formal investigation with interviews and evidence review
- A written outcome and, where appropriate, disciplinary action
No one making a complaint or participating in an investigation will be penalised for doing so.

6. Disciplinary Measures:

If an allegation is upheld, appropriate action will be taken. This may include:
- A formal warning
- Mandatory training
- Suspension or termination of employment or contract
- Reporting to external authorities where required

7. Support for Those Affected:

Support will be offered to anyone affected by sexual harassment, including access to external counselling services, adjustments to working arrangements, and safeguarding measures.

8. Zero Tolerance and Retaliation:

Retaliation against anyone who raises a concern or participates in an investigation is strictly prohibited and will be treated as a serious disciplinary matter.

9. Review and Training:

This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as needed. All staff and representatives will be made aware of the policy and may be required to undertake training on respectful conduct and harassment prevention.