Sexual harassment remains a problem in some workplaces despite heightened awareness, according to professional speaker and trainer Jan Fraser.

But human resource professionals and those experiencing harassment at work can get help on how to handle the situation at a follow-up seminar on the topic.

Ms Fraser, of Jan Fraser Business Training, said: “We felt compelled to put on another workshop because sexual harassment remains a problem in some workplaces, despite the heightened awareness brought about by recent allegations against high-profile politicians, actors, film producers.”

Ms Fraser hosted a successful first seminar on the topic for more than 100 HR professionals, chief executives and business leaders at the Hamilton Princess and Beach Club in November.

Panelists included Tawana Tannock, chairwoman of the Human Rights Commission, lawyer Paul Harshaw, of Canterbury Law, and counsellor Cathy Sousa, of Benedict Associates.

Ms Fraser spoke about her personal experiences, gave an overview of what constitutes sexual harassment and bullying, how they are connected, and how to handle such incidents before opening the floor to questions.

She said: “Many local business people heard about the last event and were disappointed not to have been invited, others who were invited were unable to attend, and there is an underlying demand for more information on how to handle sexual harassment and bullying in a business environment.”

Ms Fraser said they had also received requests to train staff privately, in-house.

She added: “As far as we can tell, there is little or no training taking place in Bermuda to recognise and stop sexual harassment so this is in response to that demand.”

The half-day workshop on January 18 is designed for companies who may need support to train employees on these issues.

It is also aimed at individuals who may be experiencing unacceptable behaviour in their workplace and are looking for help and advice on how to handle the situation.

Ms Fraser added: “I hope that what we will be discussing will help create a more fair and positive workplace environment free of unacceptable behaviour.”

•For more information, contact Lisa Card at Jan Fraser Business Training on 292-7279, e-mail lcard@bm.bm or visit janfraserbusinesstraining.com.