Sexual Misconduct Policy

Introduction:

Bloxwich Medical Practice is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all patients, visitors, and staff. This Sexual Misconduct Policy is designed to uphold the highest standards of sexual safety, in accordance with the principles of the Sexual Safety Charter. Our aim is to prevent sexual harassment, abuse, and inappropriate behaviour, and to ensure that all concerns are managed sensitively, promptly, and effectively.

This policy is based on the principles set out in the national Sexual Safety Charter and relevant statutory guidance. Local safeguarding procedures and NHS best practice have also informed this document.

Policy Statement:

We believe that everyone at Bloxwich Medical Practice has the right to feel safe and respected. Sexual harassment, abuse, or any form of unwanted sexual behaviour will not be tolerated under any circumstances. This policy applies to all staff, patients, visitors, contractors, and volunteers within the Surgery’s premises or when representing Bloxwich Medical Practice in any capacity.

Definition if Sexual Safety:

Sexual safety refers to the right of every individual to be free from unwanted sexual attention, harassment, comments, advances, or abuse. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Unwanted touching or physical contact
• Sexually suggestive comments, jokes, or gestures
• Displaying or sharing sexually explicit material
• Making inappropriate or intrusive questions about a person’s sex life or body
• Any behaviour that creates a hostile, intimidating, or offensive environment

Commitment to the Sexual Safety Charter

Bloxwich Medical Practice adopts and implements the core commitments of the Sexual Safety Charter:

1. Zero tolerance for sexual harassment, abuse, or violence.
2. Clear and accessible reporting mechanisms for anyone who experiences or witnesses sexual safety concerns.
3. Prompt, sensitive, and confidential handling of all reports and disclosures.
4. Support for those affected by sexual safety incidents, including signposting to specialist services.
5. Regular training and education for all staff regarding sexual safety, respectful communication, and boundaries.
6. Continuous review and improvement of policies and procedures to ensure effectiveness.

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Practice Manager has overall responsibility for implementation and monitoring of this policy.
• All Staff: Required to uphold the policy, report concerns, and participate in training.
• Patients and Visitors: Expected to behave respectfully and report any concerns to staff.

Reporting Sexual Safety Concerns:

Any individual who experiences or witnesses sexual harassment, abuse, or inappropriate behaviour at Bloxwich Medical Practice can report their concerns in the following ways:

• Speak directly to any member of staff, who will escalate the concern to the Practice Manager or Safeguarding Lead.
• Email or write to the Practice Manager (contact details available from reception).
• Use the Surgery’s complaints procedure, details of which are available at reception and on our website.
• If needed report to our Freedom of Speech contact – (Practice Manager for St Lukes Surgery)

All reports will be treated with sensitivity and confidentiality. We will listen to all concerns without judgement and ensure appropriate action is taken.

Responding to Incidents:

Upon receiving a report or disclosure, Bloxwich Medical Practice will:

1. Take all concerns seriously and act promptly.
2. Maintain confidentiality wherever possible, sharing information only where necessary for safeguarding.
3. Offer support to anyone affected, including referral to external agencies if appropriate.
4. Conduct a thorough, impartial investigation in line with safeguarding and disciplinary procedures.
5. Implement appropriate measures to protect individuals and prevent recurrence.

Support and Signposting:

Bloxwich Medical Practice is committed to supporting anyone affected by sexual safety concerns. We will provide information about, and referral to, specialist support services such as local safeguarding teams, sexual assault referral centres, counselling, and advocacy organisations.

Training and Awareness:

All staff will receive training on sexual safety, safeguarding, and appropriate professional boundaries. Information about sexual safety and how to report concerns will be made available to all patients and visitors.

Policy Review:

This policy will be reviewed annually or in response to significant changes in legislation, guidance, or organisational practice. Feedback from staff, patients, and stakeholders is welcomed to ensure continuous improvement.