Roberts's Story of Sexual Harassment at Work
Winston Solicitors recently supported a client, Robert*, who experienced repeated sexual harassment at work. His story highlights the importance of speaking up, seeking justice, and accessing compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) Scheme.
Sexual Harassment at Work Witnessed by Others
Robert worked in a retail store, where one of his colleagues took an inappropriate and unwelcome interest in him from his first day on the job. What began with uncomfortable comments and advances quickly escalated to physical harassment. Whenever they were alone (whether in quiet areas of the store or the stockroom) the colleague would behave inappropriately. He repeatedly groped Robert, squeezing his bottom. On several occasions, he went further by pushing his hands into Robert’s shorts.
This behaviour left Robert feeling distressed, embarrassed, and increasingly anxious about going to work. Despite his discomfort, he bravely reported the situation to his manager and to the police.
Other colleagues had witnessed some of the incidents, and key moments of the harassment were captured on the store’s CCTV system. This evidence played a crucial role in ensuring that the case progressed quickly through the courts. The colleague was ultimately found guilty, which provided some closure for Robert.
However, even after the guilty verdict, Robert struggled to move on emotionally. The trauma of the repeated assaults continued to affect him, and he found himself dwelling on the events.
Pursuing a CICA Claim for Sexual Harassment at Work
Robert decided to make a claim through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme, which provides financial support to victims of violent crimes, including sexual assaults. To reduce the stress of the process, he contacted Winston Solicitors for help. Our team handled the claim on his behalf, ensuring all evidence was gathered and that Robert received the advice he needed to secure the best possible outcome.
Robert was awarded £3,300 in compensation, which reflects the repeated sexual touching under clothes as defined by the CICA. Sexual harassment at work is a serious crime and the compensation rewarded reflects that. This financial support gave Robert the opportunity to pay for private counselling sessions. In addition, it allowed him to start his recovery without the long delays often associated with NHS waiting lists.
Robert was pleased with both the compensation award and the support he received from Winston Solicitors. By trusting us to manage the claims process, he was able to focus on his wellbeing, knowing his case was being handled with care and professionalism.
Moving Forward After Sexual Harassment at Work
Robert’s story serves as an important reminder that no one should have to tolerate sexual harassment, especially in the workplace. If you have experienced sexual harassment at work, you do not have to face it alone. Speaking up can be difficult, but there are systems in place to provide support and compensation to help victims move forward.
At Winston Solicitors, we have extensive experience helping clients make CICA claims. We understand the emotional and practical challenges involved, and we are here to make the process as straightforward and stress-free as possible.
If you have experienced sexual harassment at work and wish to explore your options for compensation, our specialist team is here to help. Contact Winston Solicitors today by calling 0113 320 5000 or emailing cica@winstonsolicitors.co.uk.
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* Name changed for anonymity
