I'm an Employer and I want to ensure I am ready to support my staff if anyone discloses abuse

Ensuring your organisation is prepared to support employees who disclose domestic abuse is both a legal obligation and a vital aspect of fostering a safe workplace.

Economic Impact of Domestic Abuse on Businesses:

Domestic abuse has a profound economic impact on UK businesses, with recent estimates indicating a cost of approximately £14 billion annually. This encompasses decreased productivity, absenteeism, and employee turnover.

Prevalence of Workplace Policies:

Despite the significant impact, research by the Vodafone Foundation revealed that only 5% of employers have implemented specific policies or guidelines to address domestic abuse and its effects on employees.

Employer's Duty of Care:

Under the Domestic Abuse Act 2021, employers have a statutory duty to consider the impact of domestic abuse on their employees as part of their duty of care. This includes developing policies or guidance that may encompass paid leave or flexible working arrangements to support affected staff.

Support Services for Employers:

Organisations like Coventry Haven Women's Aid offer training, support, information, and advice to help employers:

• Recognise Signs of Abuse: Identifying indicators that an employee may be experiencing domestic abuse.

• Facilitate Safe Conversations: Approaching discussions in a discreet, understanding, and non-judgmental manner.

• Develop Appropriate Responses: Assisting in the creation of effective policies and procedures to support affected employees.

For more information, please contact us via email or call 02476 444 077.

Additional Resources:

The Employers’ Initiative on Domestic Abuse (EIDA) has published a comprehensive toolkit for employers, which can be downloaded here

By implementing a domestic abuse policy and providing a supportive workplace culture, employers can play a crucial role in mitigating the impact of domestic abuse on their employees and their organisation.