Sexual harassment experienced by police staff serving in England, Wales and Scotland : a descriptive exploration of incidence, antecedents and harm

An online survey (N = 1,776) was conducted with support staff to explore the type and incidence of sexual harassment within the police working environment and the explanatory value of known antecedent factors. Univariate results indicated that the highest levels of sexual harassment were associated with sexual banter, reported by three quarters of those surveyed, and diminishing levels of exposure to more serious types of harassment. Multivariate analyses showed statistically significant associations between levels of exposure and organisational variables but few demographic factors. Having established a better understanding of salient risk factors, the discussion identifies implications for organisational preventative interventions