Personal relationships in the workplace

People spend a lot of time with their colleagues, making it inevitable that some working relationships may turn into romantic ones. Equally, the partner of an existing employee may apply for and be successful in securing a role within your organisation.

Close personal relationships can pose potential risks to both employers and employees if, for example, they result in conflicts of interest, favouritism or unfair treatment, or if relationships between colleagues are conducted inappropriately or end badly. These risks are potentially greater if romantic relationships occur between a manager and a more junior staff member, particularly if they work within the same team or on the same project. Similar challenges and risks can also arise in the case of close personal friendships, even if they do not have a romantic element.

This factsheet considers how employers can establish clear policies and procedures around relationships in the workplace, whilst respecting employees’ right to a private life.