Employers – Domestic Abuse is a Workplace Issue
Domestic abuse significantly impacts the workplace, often more than employers realise. As an employer, it’s crucial to understand that you have a duty of care to your staff, which includes safeguarding them from domestic abuse, as outlined in the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 Employer Guidelines (paragraphs 402-412). Employers play an important role in identifying and supporting staff experiencing domestic abuse and calls on employers to join the EIDA (Employers Initiative of Domestic Abuse) to help them to take action. Safe Space Consultancy is listed as one of the specialist domestic abuse training providers on the EIDA website HERE:
How Employers Can Help
You don’t need to be an expert in domestic abuse to make a difference. Here are some steps you can take to create a safe space for employees experiencing domestic abuse:
- Develop a Domestic Abuse Policy: Currently, less than 5% of UK employers have such a policy. Implementing one is a vital first step.
- Engage in Domestic Abuse Training: Understanding the complexities of domestic abuse is essential to ensuring your staff’s safety.
- Recognise Barriers to Disclosure: Be aware of the challenges employees face in disclosing abuse and the associated risks.
- Support Financial Independence: Help your employees maintain their jobs, as financial independence is crucial for those looking to leave abusive relationships.
- Become Accredited as ‘A Safe Space to Work Business’: This accreditation shows your commitment to providing a safe workplace for all employees.
The Impact of Addressing Domestic Abuse
Addressing domestic abuse in the workplace can be life-saving. With 2.4 million people affected by domestic abuse annually in the UK, equivalent to 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men, the impact of workplace support is significant.
Domestic abuse doesn’t just affect the victim; it also impacts their colleagues and the overall business. It is vital to understand that the abuse is not your employee’s fault, instead, it is a deliberate attempt by the perpetrator to humiliate and sabotage their partner’s job and prospects.
My ex-husband was violent towards me and made my work life very difficult. He crashed my company car on purpose. I wish Safe Space was around then!” Safe Space client.
Actions Employers Can Take
Employers play a crucial role in identifying and supporting employees experiencing domestic abuse. Here are three main actions to take:
- Recognise: Identify the signs of domestic abuse.
- Respond: Offer appropriate support and resources.
- Refer: Direct employees to professional help and services.
All these actions are covered in the training. Access the introductory online seminar here: Impact of Domestic Abuse in the Workplace
Leading businesses are setting an example by offering paid leave, emergency accommodation, and financial support for affected staff. National retailers like Boots and Superdrug and Pharmacies are opening their consultation rooms as Safe Spaces. The UK Says NO More campaign is rolling out a code word scheme across supermarkets and high street retailers, while rail companies offer free fares to safe houses and refuges.
Join the Movement
Join us in changing the culture and stigma surrounding domestic abuse. Promote your business as ‘A Safe Space to Work’ and contribute to a national effort to end domestic abuse.
Employers- your actions can literally save a life!
For further information on Safe Space Consultancy Training got to Services page here: https://safespaceconsultancy.org/services/ or email Julie at julie@safespaceconsultancy.org.
