According to recent research from YouGov, 1 in 10 bosses say they avoid meeting junior workers because they fear false allegations, with some changing how they manage staff or avoid normal interactions because of concerns about legal, reputational and personal risk.

Senior Solicitor in Harper James’ Employment team, Helen Dyke, sets out what employers are getting stuck on, and what “getting it right” looks like when allegations arise:

“Recent YouGov research suggests that a growing number of business leaders are changing how they manage and interact with staff because of concerns about false allegations. For many employers, particularly in SMEs, this anxiety goes beyond legal risk and starts to affect trust, confidence and everyday working relationships.

“When allegations arise, the impact can be significant for everyone involved. For the individual accused, even an unproven claim can be distressing and professionally damaging. For the person raising concerns, the process can feel daunting if it is not handled with care. From a business perspective, there is also the risk of disruption, reputational harm, and legal exposure if matters are mishandled.

“Employers often feel this pressure more acutely if they do not have large HR teams or in-house legal support. This can lead to understandable caution or to leaders becoming overly defensive in how they manage their teams. Over time, this kind of risk-avoidance can undermine effective leadership and workplace culture.

“The legal position itself is relatively clear, even if the situations are not. Employers have a duty to take complaints seriously and to investigate them fairly, objectively and confidentially, following their own procedures and the ACAS Code. That duty applies regardless of whether an allegation is ultimately upheld, unsubstantiated or found to be false. Reaching conclusions too early, in either direction, can increase legal risk.

“The most effective response is often preparation rather than reaction. Having clear, proportionate policies, basic manager training and a thought-through approach to handling complaints can make a significant difference when an issue arises. In practice, this may involve interim measures to protect all parties, careful communication and, where appropriate, external support to ensure independence.

“Addressing the risk of false allegations does not mean stepping back from good people management. Most workplace issues are resolved through clear expectations, respectful communication and confidence in fair processes. Businesses that invest in these fundamentals are better placed to support their people and protect the organisation when difficult situations arise.”