Fast food chain McDonald's has committed to enhancing its training programs following past allegations of sexual abuse against young employees in its restaurants. Despite these efforts, some workers believe there is still significant progress to be made.
Matty, a longtime McDonald's employee who joined at age 16 under a pseudonym, revealed that managers and colleagues often discuss their personal sex lives openly at work. He observed, however, that conditions have recently become “more normal” and improved considerably.
"Managers and others like to talk about their sex life openly."
"Things are more normal."
Matty previously advised potential employees to “think very carefully” before joining the company.
Another anonymous former employee, who left for a different job earlier this year, reported little improvement in the working environment.
"Not really,"
he said when asked if conditions had gotten better.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) initially signed a legal agreement with McDonald's in 2023 aimed at preventing sexual harassment in its UK restaurants, addressing concerns about complaint handling. This agreement was set to conclude in 2025 but has now been extended and strengthened for at least another year.
Author’s summary: McDonald's continues to face criticism over workplace sexual harassment despite improved measures, highlighting the need for ongoing cultural change and stronger protections for staff.