Fife Council is strengthening its commitment to the Equally Safe at Work programme, building on progress made since gaining bronze accreditation in November 2023.

Chief Executive, Ken Gourlay, said: “I want Fife Council to be a great place for everyone to work.
“Since achieving our bronze accreditation, we’ve introduced a sexual harassment policy, mandatory learning for all employees and clearer information on how staff can report all forms of sexual harassment. We’re also due to review our gender-based violence policy, which was introduced as part of the initial accreditation.

“These are important steps, but we know there is more to do. As we work towards renewing our bronze accreditation, we’ll keep focusing on practical changes that help staff feel safe, supported and clear about their role in preventing all forms of sexual harassment in the workplace.”

As one of Fife’s largest employers, the council has a responsibility to establish a positive workplace culture where employees feel safe, respected and supported. That culture matters beyond the workplace. Council employees are also parents, carers, neighbours and friends. When people have the knowledge and confidence to recognise harm and speak up safely, they help to build safer communities across Fife.

Council Leader, Cllr David Ross, added: “Our work through the Equally Safe at Work programme is closely linked to our wider partnership approach. As a key member of the Fife Violence Against Women Partnership, we are working alongside public and third sector organisations to prevent violence against women and girls and improve support for those affected.

“By strengthening our policies, raising awareness and supporting partnership activity, we are playing our part in a coordinated, Fife-wide effort to challenge harmful behaviours and create a safer, more equal society for everyone.”

 
The Fife Violence Against Women Partnership is a multi-agency partnership of public bodies and third sector organisations working together to prevent violence against women and girls and improve support for those affected. Through Equally Safe at Work, the council has strengthened its work with the Partnership and continues to support events and awareness-raising activity throughout the year.

Laura Pearson, Fife Violence Against Women Partnership Coordinator, said: “Employers play a vital role in creating cultures where everyone feels safe and respected. I’m pleased to see Fife Council’s continued leadership and commitment to promoting gender equality through Equally Safe at Work. It helps to strengthen wider partnership work across Fife to prevent gender-based violence and build safer, more inclusive communities.”