When does the third-party harassment rule start?

The government has published 30 October 2026 as the date for both the third-party harassment rule and the all reasonable steps duty on sexual harassment. Check GOV.UK or Acas for confirmation, as the changes are brought in by commencement regulations.

Does it cover harassment that happened before 30 October 2026?

The new rules are not expected to apply to conduct before that date. Harassment before 30 October is judged under the law at the time, which for sexual harassment includes the reasonable steps duty in force since October 2024.

Who counts as a third party?

Anyone who is neither your employer nor one of its employees. That includes customers, clients, patients, service users, pupils, contractors, suppliers, visitors and members of the public you deal with through your work.

Does it cover every protected characteristic?

It covers harassment related to age, disability, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation, and sexual harassment. It does not cover pregnancy and maternity, or marriage and civil partnership, which are outside the Equality Act's definition of harassment.

Can I claim against the customer who harassed me?

The new rule is a claim against your employer in the employment tribunal, based on what your employer failed to do. Any separate route against the individual is a different matter outside the tribunal.

How long do I have to bring a claim?

For acts on or after 1 October 2026, six months less one day from the act you are complaining about, and you must go through Acas early conciliation first. Do not wait until near the end.

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