Jayla Boyd, a young woman from Belfast, has successfully won a £65,000 settlement from JD Sports after enduring a shocking incident with a male supervisor. While working part-time during her A-level studies, Jayla experienced a deeply unsettling moment when her supervisor slapped her bottom. Despite reporting it immediately, distressingly, the supervisor continued working alongside her, claiming it was mere “muscle memory.”
Jayla’s brave stand highlights the crucial importance of safe and supportive workplaces. She bravely reported the incident, but says she was left without adequate support from her employer and felt ignored. No formal interview was conducted, and her personal details were improperly shared, adding to her distress. To make matters worse, during her absence, she felt the issue was swept under the rug, and upon returning, no follow-up discussion or support was offered.
In a staff training session later on, an example eerily similar to her case was used, leaving her feeling further embarrassed and isolated. Eventually, Jayla chose to resign, hoping her situation will empower others to stand up against such unacceptable behaviour.
The Equality Commission for Northern Ireland supported Jayla’s case. Their Chief Commissioner, Geraldine McGahey, emphasises a zero-tolerance policy on workplace harassment. It’s a strong reminder to employers to ensure clear harassment policies are in place and effectively communicated to all staff.
JD Sports, acknowledging the distress caused, has apologised unreservedly and assured that changes are underway to prevent recurrence. This incident underscores the urgent need for a workplace where everyone feels safe and respected.
Let’s share Jayla’s story widely, as it’s a crucial reminder of the importance of standing up against workplace harassment and demanding respect and safety at work. If you’re in a similar situation, know you’re not alone, and there are organisations ready to support you.