24/03/2026
A prior consensual relationship does not simplify an Internal Committee’s job. It complicates it.
Picture this scenario: A consensual workplace relationship ends in a complaint of sexual harassment.
Now the IC must analyse both- without presumption and without moral framing.
Does prior consent become legally irrelevant?
Is power dynamics a factor of assessment?
If one party influenced reporting lines or appraisals, does that alter the threshold?
Was the relationship disclosed under any internal policy?
If not, does that indicate a governance gap?
The Internal Committee must apply statutory standards, procedural fairness, and evidentiary discipline- even when the facts are emotionally charged.
That balancing exercise requires structured reasoning.
We work through complexities like this in the SHLC PoSH Train-the-Trainer Programme, with a focus on strengthening capacity for IC members.
9–10 April (online).
Applications close 7 April.
Submit your expression of interest here: **LINK IN BIO**