Lloyd’s of London pledges to act on sexual harassment allegations

Lloyd’s of London has pledged to bring in a raft of new measures in response to reports of a pervasive culture of sexual harassment at the insurance market.

The plan of action includes an independent route for reporting inappropriate behaviour, a market-wide survey on the issue and new training.

It comes after women working at the London market told Bloomberg they had experienced harassment ranging from inappropriate comments to unwanted touching.

“It has been distressing to hear about the experiences of women in the Lloyd’s market,” said chief executive John Neal.

“No-one should be subjected to this sort of behaviour, and if it does happen, everyone has the right to be heard and for those responsible to be held to account.

“I am pleased that the market has given its full support for a strong set of actions, and I am determined that Lloyd’s offers a safe and inclusive working environment for everyone.”

The plan has been developed with Lloyd’s Board and Council, and by the association representing the Lloyd’s market: Lloyd’s Market Association (LMA) and the London & International Insurance Brokers Association (LIIBA).

As part of the new measures, an independent and confidential access point will be provided for reporting inappropriate behaviour.

Individuals found to have acted inappropriately will be subject to sanctions from both their own companies and Lloyd’s, including a possible temporary or permanent ban from entering Lloyd’s.

The market has not ruled out further action, saying this will be informed by an independent survey to identify the scale of the problem.

The changes announced on Tuesday are in addition to a previously stated pledge to hear the accounts of the women who contributed to the Bloomberg article and the appointment of Fiona Luck and Vicky Carter to the nominations committee.