relationships in the workplace

• I've started a relationship with a colleague. Will my employer have a problem with this?   more...
• My wife was sacked for misconduct. Can my employers make me go too?  more...
• I had a relationship with a colleague and now I have been asked to leave. Do I have to?  more...
• My company want us to sign a "love contract". Do I have to?  more...
• I want a job with a company, but they won't consider me as my husband works there. Is this allowed?  more...
• I'm getting unwanted advances from a colleague. What can I do about it?   more...
• Can our company outlaw relationships that start at work?  more...
• We were caught in a compromising position in the stationery cupboard. Is this a sackable offence?  more...
• Can our firm insist that we tell them about all workplace relationships?  more...

further information

According to a 2002 survey, a quarter of all long-term relationships start at work - hardly surprising, given the amount of time we spend there.

But, following a lead from employment practices in the United States, UK employers are increasingly trying to restrict relationships that might blur the lines between the public and the professional. The aim is to avoid potential conflicts of interest, and protect the company from sexual harassment claims. Sadly, too often such heavy handed restrictions treat staff like children, and fail to respect their right to privacy.

If your firm is trying to play chaperone, or wants to ban coupling altogether, these questions should help you find out where you stand on love and the law.