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The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has issued a warning to all 1,400 McDonald’s branches in the UK, threatening legal action if they fail to protect employees from sexual harassment and assault. The watchdog’s letter comes after investigations revealed ongoing reports of abuse, despite the company’s earlier pledges to improve workplace conditions. McDonald’s workers, including some young employees, continue to face abuse, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the company’s measures to address the issue.

EHRC’s Warning and Legal Implications

The EHRC’s letter to McDonald’s serves as a reminder of the company’s legal obligations under the Equality Act. It outlined steps the fast-food giant must take to prevent sexual harassment in its restaurants, including regular risk assessments and proper handling of complaints. The EHRC also emphasized the need to safeguard younger workers, who are particularly vulnerable in the workplace.

If McDonald’s or its franchise owners fail to comply with these legal duties, the EHRC could take enforcement action, including investigations and possible court proceedings. The watchdog’s intervention follows widespread reports of abuse, many involving employees as young as 16 and 17.

Workers Demand Real Change

A 19-year-old McDonald’s worker from southwest Scotland, who goes by the name Alan, shared his distressing experience of verbal abuse, homophobic slurs, and a toxic work culture. Alan, who still works at the same branch, expressed frustration over the lack of meaningful improvements, despite the company’s public commitments to change. His case highlights the gap between McDonald’s promises and the reality faced by workers on the ground.

The EHRC has termed the allegations as “troubling” and pointed to recurring incidents at various McDonald’s branches, many of which operate as franchises. While McDonald’s has implemented a 2023 agreement to prevent sexual harassment, franchise-owned locations are not fully covered by this commitment. However, all businesses in the UK are still required to adhere to the Equality Act.

Legal Responsibilities and Franchise Owners

John Kirkpatrick, the EHRC’s Chief Executive, stressed that all McDonald’s outlets, including franchises, must ensure their anti-discrimination and harassment policies are robust and effective. “You must ensure your anti-discrimination and harassment policies are effective and protect workers,” Kirkpatrick stated. The EHRC is closely monitoring compliance and will take action if necessary.

Franchise owners who fail to uphold their legal responsibilities risk facing enforcement action from the EHRC. The watchdog has the authority to investigate, and continued non-compliance could result in severe consequences, including unlimited fines.

Parliamentary Criticism and Delayed Response

Liam Byrne, Chair of the Business and Trade Select Committee, criticized the EHRC for its delayed response to the harassment allegations. He questioned why McDonald’s branches were only now being warned, despite the law being updated six months ago. Byrne also pointed out that harassment claims have existed for years, urging the EHRC to take swift action.

In response, Kirkpatrick defended the watchdog’s approach, emphasizing that collaboration with management is key to driving change. He confirmed, however, that the EHRC would take stronger enforcement actions if necessary to ensure a safe working environment for employees.

Ongoing Investigations and Harassment Allegations

The investigation into McDonald’s workplace conditions began over two years ago, following multiple reports of harassment. In July 2023, a number of workers, including those under 18, reported sexual harassment and assault. Over 160 employees have since come forward with their own allegations, and the EHRC has documented at least 300 incidents of abuse.

One 19-year-old worker reported inappropriate touching by managers, while another employee in the West Midlands described being harassed by both managers and customers. Other employees reported verbal abuse and threats, with one female worker even sharing that a male manager sent her topless photos. These disturbing reports highlight the extent of the problem McDonald’s faces in creating a safe and supportive work environment.

Company’s Response and Measures Taken

In response to the ongoing investigations, McDonald’s has stated its commitment to a safe workplace. The company has created a complaints unit, introduced enhanced training programs, and implemented a digital complaint system. McDonald’s UK CEO, Alistair Macrow, revealed that 29 employees were dismissed for sexual harassment over the past year. The company also signed an agreement with the EHRC, pledging to improve workplace safety.

Despite these efforts, the effectiveness of McDonald’s measures remains under scrutiny. The company’s cultural action plan includes further training, improvements to onboarding processes, and an anonymous employee survey, which revealed that 94% of workers know how to report workplace issues.

A Long Road Ahead

The intervention by the EHRC highlights the ongoing challenges McDonald’s faces in tackling sexual harassment within its workforce. While the company has taken some steps to address the issue, employees and advocacy groups remain dissatisfied with the pace of change. The watchdog’s warning underscores the importance of compliance with the Equality Act, and McDonald’s must continue to strengthen its efforts to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all employees.