McDonald's Implements New Training Amidst Sexual Harassment Allegations
9 hours ago | By Noor Nanji & Zoe Conway - BBC News
McDonald's is set to introduce comprehensive sexual harassment training for its managers as part of newly strengthened measures agreed upon with the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC). This decision was made "in response to serious allegations raised," according to the watchdog, following its intervention with the fast-food chain. A BBC investigation conducted two years ago uncovered claims that workers, some as young as 17, were subjected to groping and harassment. Despite previous promises of reform, McDonald's workers have reported experiencing sexual abuse and harassment as recently as this year.
While McDonald's has welcomed the new measures, acknowledging they "build on the significant progress we have already made," a former employee remains skeptical. She contends that the announcement is unlikely to effect real change, describing it as a mere checkbox exercise for the company.
The EHRC is broadening its initial plan, agreed upon in 2023, to further safeguard McDonald's employees in England, Scotland, and Wales against sexual harassment. This includes a focus on the grooming of young workers and the implications of social media. Additionally, McDonald's will engage an external body to evaluate its current handling of sexual harassment claims. Although franchises are not directly part of the agreement, they are expected to adopt similar measures.
Since signing a legally binding agreement with the EHRC in February 2023, McDonald's has faced increasing allegations of misconduct. The BBC reported claims of sexual assault, harassment, racism, and bullying from over 100 workers in July 2023. Apologizing, McDonald's established a unit dedicated to handling complaints. However, the BBC has received further allegations from 160 individuals, while the EHRC has documented 300 reported instances of harassment.
Taken aback by the revelations, Leigh Day law firm initiated legal proceedings involving hundreds of current and former McDonald's staff across more than 450 restaurants. Employment lawyer Kiran Daurka from Leigh Day noted that the EHRC's ongoing actions suggest concerns over inadequate progress at McDonald's.
Addressing the situation, Baroness Kishwer Falkner, EHRC Chairwoman, expressed, "After serious allegations were raised, we needed to update the action plan with stronger actions specific to McDonald's operations. We appreciate the steps McDonald's is taking towards a safer working environment for its staff and acknowledge the hard work done so far."