Teen workers take legal action against McDonald’s

Over 700 teenagers are suing McDonald’s, alleging harassment and discrimination in the workplace. Thomas Beale, Head of the Bullying & Harassment team at Bolt Burdon Kemp, condemned the fast-food giant for its “abhorrent abuse of power,” highlighting the lack of action taken despite previous claims of sexual harassment. Young employees reported being bullied, subjected to homophobic comments, and even solicited for sexual favours by managers. The law firm Leigh Day is representing the claimants, urging all current staff under 20 to join the legal action as they could be entitled to bring claims just for having been exposed to a culture of inappropriate conduct. McDonald’s has stated it is committed to ensuring a safe workplace but faces increasing scrutiny following the enactment of the Worker Protection Act.