Lloyd’s announces action plan to create a safe and inclusive working environment

Lloyd’s today announced a robust plan of action to address reports of sexual harassment in the Lloyd’s market and create a safe and inclusive working environment.

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

This wide-ranging set of actions is intended to increase reporting, impose strong sanctions on those found to be responsible for inappropriate behaviour and create better understanding and awareness of the issues. It includes:

• Provision of an independent bullying and harassment support line. This line will provide confidential advice and support for those experiencing inappropriate behaviour at work and will help them decide on their next steps.
• Confirmation that, where investigations conclude that individuals have a case to answer, they will be subject to sanctions from their own companies and also from Lloyd’s. They may be banned from entering Lloyd’s for a fixed period and potentially for life.
• Undertaking an independent and market-wide culture survey to identify the scale and scope of the issue, and to inform further action.
• A comprehensive review of policies and practices across the Lloyd’s market, with a view to identifying and sharing best practice.
• Provision of training focused on prevention, as well as reporting and supporting those who have been subjected to inappropriate behaviour.

These actions are in addition to those already reported, namely:

• A commitment to hear the accounts of the women who contributed to the article published by Bloomberg, in a safe and confidential space.
• Changes to Lloyd’s Nominations Committee to increase diversity. Fiona Luck (Lloyd’s Board) and Vicky Carter (Lloyd’s Council) will join the Committee with immediate effect, succeeding Sir David Manning and Charles Franks.