The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has extended its legal agreement with McDonald’s to strengthen protections against sexual harassment after ongoing concerns about complaint handling. The renewed agreement supports a reinforced action plan that includes a new safeguarding policy, collaboration with external experts, independent auditing of the company’s complaint processes, and external investigations into complaints against managers. McDonald’s will also deliver refreshed training for managers and franchisees on sexual harassment, social media and grooming risks, alongside strengthened risk assessments and regular staff surveys.
Observers of this case have noted that the volume of allegations, namely over 160 shared with the BBC and more than 300 reported to the EHRC, suggests wider cultural problems rather than isolated incidents, and that training alone cannot resolve them. They highlighted the need for stronger organisational values, psychological safety, visible leadership commitment, and clearer expectations about acceptable behaviour. They also emphasised that lasting cultural change demands consistency, role modelling, and proactive measures to prevent harassment.
