30th January 2013, 07:34 PM
I think that it can often be difficult when discussing the issue of sexual harassment as it covers such a wide range of problems. As highlighted in David's initial post there have been reported incidents where the advice given is to go to the police so I am assuming that an actual assault or attempted assault has taken place - in instances that are this serious I don't think that it is as simple as just following the practical advice given above.
As a woman, particularly when you are just starting out in your career, you are incredibly vulnerable and may find it difficult to walk the line between banter and feeling uncomfortable but afraid to speak up for fear of not fitting in, being seen as a "prude" etc. Often light can be made if there is either an individual on site or a mutual acquaintance who making people (particualy the women) very uncomfortable or even afraid to be around them. I have been on a site where such a person was described "as a bit rapey" and a huge joke was made of how lecherous someone was then a list of their misdemeanors reeled off as if it were a great joke or some sort of carry-on film!!!
But this isn't a joke - put yourself in the position of a new graduate, tough job market, incredibly grateful to have work, desperate to get enough experience to find work elsewhere and they are being harassed at work. If it is a person in power, or even just someone well established within the company that is making inappropriate comments, advances or making unwelcome sexual advances or even sexually abusing the person there are a complex series of emotions which all may prevent an individual speaking out. Couple this with the fact you are isolated - working away from home and often will not know anyone apart from your workmates who you also live with and who may also be your abuser! It is not as simple as following the steps and often the outcome of this type of abuse can be lack of self esteem, questioning what they may have done, blaming themselves, fear and depression.
Are the British Women Archaeologist's able to act as a confidential go between and gather information to help women at risk compile a dossier and give advice and support if and when people experiencing these difficulties feel that they wish to take the matter further - either to their immediate superior, company head or the police?
A list of rape and sexual assault helplines can be found at http://www.itv.com/thismorning/helplines/rapehelplines/
As a woman, particularly when you are just starting out in your career, you are incredibly vulnerable and may find it difficult to walk the line between banter and feeling uncomfortable but afraid to speak up for fear of not fitting in, being seen as a "prude" etc. Often light can be made if there is either an individual on site or a mutual acquaintance who making people (particualy the women) very uncomfortable or even afraid to be around them. I have been on a site where such a person was described "as a bit rapey" and a huge joke was made of how lecherous someone was then a list of their misdemeanors reeled off as if it were a great joke or some sort of carry-on film!!!
But this isn't a joke - put yourself in the position of a new graduate, tough job market, incredibly grateful to have work, desperate to get enough experience to find work elsewhere and they are being harassed at work. If it is a person in power, or even just someone well established within the company that is making inappropriate comments, advances or making unwelcome sexual advances or even sexually abusing the person there are a complex series of emotions which all may prevent an individual speaking out. Couple this with the fact you are isolated - working away from home and often will not know anyone apart from your workmates who you also live with and who may also be your abuser! It is not as simple as following the steps and often the outcome of this type of abuse can be lack of self esteem, questioning what they may have done, blaming themselves, fear and depression.
Are the British Women Archaeologist's able to act as a confidential go between and gather information to help women at risk compile a dossier and give advice and support if and when people experiencing these difficulties feel that they wish to take the matter further - either to their immediate superior, company head or the police?
A list of rape and sexual assault helplines can be found at http://www.itv.com/thismorning/helplines/rapehelplines/