1 in 3 women and 1 in 6 men will experience domestic abuse in their lifetimes. When these statistics are compared to how many staff you employ, as an employer you can begin to understand the prevalence of the problem, particularly when domestic abuse victims will suffer 50 incidents before reporting.
It is important to be aware of the risk factors that can lead to domestic abuse incidents. These are known as triggers and sadly in this current time, there is a perfect storm. Christmas is upon us and the additional stress of extra expense, spending more time at home together during the holiday season, excessive drinking can all lead to increased risk of domestic abuse.
This year we have had the cost of living crisis, impacting on everyone within society, whether that is through an increase in mortgage rates, higher energy bills, increased costs in fuel and food, there is no doubt it has been a very difficult year. Those most affected are families, who have had to use foodbanks for the first time or received notice to leave from landlords who need to sell their properties or increase rents, making many families homeless. This is difficult enough but for some it is even worse, those who are living with domestic abuse.
It is important to understand that none of the above is the cause of domestic abuse, however perpetrators of domestic abuse are very adept at using external society conditions as an excuse to carry out further coercive and controlling tactics. The underlying cause of domestic abuse is always Power and Control, the mistaken belief that one person thinks they are entitled, superior to another and have the right to bully and terrorise everyone within the home. The perpetrator uses all of the above as excuses and gaslights their victim into believing they have caused the abuse and they are to blame.
Nicole Jacobs, Domestic Abuse Commissioner, said:
“Domestic abuse takes place every day of the year. It can be extremely risky for victims to reach out for help so I am calling for everyone to keep an eye out when they are with friends, colleagues, family or neighbours over Christmas.
“We need to view domestic abuse as everyone’s business. Help is available if you are experiencing abuse yourself or are concerned about someone you know.”
As an employer, be aware of these triggers and recognise the signs of domestic abuse. Through awareness, education and training, employers can better support their staff by ensuring the workplace is a safe, non-judgemental environment and encourage those who may be at risk to seek help sooner.
If raising awareness of these triggers and behaviours in this December issue can lead to one person identifying and helping another, who may be experiencing any of the above, then together we have done a good deed, we may even have saved a life!
To find out how you can safely address domestic abuse in the workplace sign up to the on-line introductory training on 19th January 2024 HERE:
