The UK Employment Rights Act 2025 introduces significant changes to harassment law that will affect games companies from October 2026. Key reforms include: employer liability for third-party harassment (covering players, partners, freelancers, and other external parties); the duty to take 'all reasonable steps' (upgraded from 'reasonable steps') to prevent sexual harassment; sexual harassment disclosures now qualifying as protected whistleblowing; and a planned prohibition on confidentiality clauses in harassment settlements expected in 2027. Games studios face unique challenges given their extensive third-party relationships and public-facing roles. Employers are advised to review risk assessments, update policies and training, strengthen reporting mechanisms, and set behavioural expectations with external partners well before the reforms take effect.
