In an effort to make NSW clubs and pubs safer, the NSW Government is mandating Sexual Violence Prevention Training for all hospitality staff. Whilst these changes are still being finalised, it serves as an important reminder for venues to take a proactive approach in preventing sexual harassment and violence in their venue.
Since the pandemic, drink spiking incidents have surged by nearly 50%, with fewer than one-sixth of suspected drink spiking-related sexual assaults being reported to the Police. (The Sydney Morning Herald, 2024)
Providing your staff with adequate training is more than just a requirement, it is an opportunity to foster a culture of respect and safety within your venue for both staff and patrons. As front-line workers, your team plays a vital role in identifying and preventing unsafe situations before they escalate. By equipping staff with the right tools and knowledge, you can help protect patrons and staff from sexual harassment and violence.
Barringtons can provide face-to-face Bullying and Sexual Harassment training which has been designed to create awareness about bullying, sexual harassment, and discrimination. This 2 hour course empowers your staff with the resources required to identify and report any instance of bullying or sexual harassment.
To compliment face-to-face training, Barringtons also offer an online Prevention of Workplace Bullying and Sexual Harassment training module which provides contemporary examples and modern definitions of what constitutes bullying and sexual harassment. This training can be completed at regular intervals as refresher training, ensuring an ongoing commitment to eliminating bullying and sexual harassment from your venue.
In line with the anticipated legislation, we are currently developing new Prevention of Sexual Violence training programs and will keep you updated as the legislation progresses. Our program will cover a range of scenarios, including but not limited to drink spiking, unwanted physical contact, inappropriate remarks from managers, sexual harassment of staff by patrons, intoxicated sexual advances, and patrons being coerced into excessive drinking.
NSW venues have an important responsibility in preventing sexual harassment and violence. Act now by equipping your staff with the skills and knowledge necessary to create a safer environment for everyone.
