WineGB launches Safeguarding Toolkit on World Mental Health Day 

The toolkit accompanies the publication of a guide for individuals called: ‘What to Do If You Have Been Assaulted or Experienced a Safeguarding Offence’. Both issues are available via the WineGB website here.  

The documents anticipate the change in the law occurring later this month, on 26th October 2024, where businesses will have a positive duty to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace.  

The launch of the Safeguarding Toolkit comes within a year of the 2023 survey findings from Curious Vines and Proof Insight, which stated that one in three women working in the industry have faced harassment while working, the figure reducing to one in every two for 18- to 34-year-olds. 

Targeted at vineyards, wineries and hospitality industry 

Despite the relatively small size of the industry compared to the wider UK alcohol sector, WineGB said it is taking a leadership role by providing this free toolkit for all to access, given the importance of safety and concerns about harassment.  

Most of the toolkit is applicable to both alcohol producers and hospitality professionals. It has been designed as a one-stop-shop for information, support, and processes to help protect and train staff in ensuring the welfare of individuals.  

The toolkit provides sample safeguarding policies, procedures, definitions of key terms, legal requirements, checklists and policy templates, a list of training and support providers, risk assessments, and information materials that can be edited and displayed in communal staff areas.  

This includes material targeted towards working at vineyards, wineries, and in hospitality. 

The ’What to Do If You Have Been Assaulted or Experienced a Safeguarding Offence’ guide offers practical next steps to victims. It includes information on how to report and document the incident and where to seek specialist help.  

The nine steps listed in the guide will help individuals seek the care they need and understand their legal rights, WineGB explained. 

WineGB’s Legal Partner Paris Smith LLP has fully reviewed the materials provided in the toolkit to ensure that they are legally compliant.  

Safety is paramount 

Commenting on the launch, CEO of WineGB Nicola Bates said: “The safety of the people in our industry is paramount. We are committed to helping not just our part of the wine industry, but all of the UK wine and wider alcohol sector to create an inclusive and equitable environment for all workers.  

“By taking the steps in this toolkit, businesses will enhance the welfare of their teams, encourage members of staff and consumers to use them, and will be on the path to being legally compliant. We are proud that WineGB resources are able to help the wider sector, and we call on groups and companies to distribute the information to better support our people.”   

Anjali Douglas DipWSET, co-lead of Women in Wine LDN, added: “It has been sobering to understand just how low the bar is regarding the passive acceptance of harassment, bullying, abuse, and neglect in the wine industry.  

“Many of the issues outlined in this document constitute criminal offences that nobody should experience full stop, let alone in their place of work. WineGB has taken a valuable step in creating this ‘one-stop-shop’ policy document, looking at the nuances of this issue from roles in hospitality to agriculture, from individuals to large workplaces, and making it available to all.  

“I hope it will be embraced across the industry and will mark the beginning of a new standard set – a zero tolerance, process-driven approach to harassment and safety at work.” 

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