The workplace can be a lifeline for someone experiencing abuse and may provide a safe place to seek help. Supporting employees who are affected by domestic abuse to remain in work can support their wellbeing in the long term.
Middlesbrough Council has developed a domestic abuse workplace policy and your workplace may have done the same. This will provide both practical and legal guidance to you as an employer.
Signs
Signs that an employee might be experiencing domestic abuse include:
- unexplained injuries
- decreased productivity
- frequent lateness or absence
- changes in behaviour
If the employee is in immediate danger, ring 999.
What to do
It can be difficult for someone to admit that they're experiencing domestic abuse, so your support is important.
Do
- Be sensitive, discrete, and supportive
- Prioritise the employee's safety
- Allocate some private time and space to listen to them
Don't
- Try to get proof of the abuse
- Contact the alleged abuser
- Try to compel a victim to seek support
- Act as a support worker - get advice from specialist domestic abuse services, and refer the employee to them (with their consent)
Resources
Domestic abuse toolkit for employers (Business in the Community)
Responding to colleagues experiencing domestic abuse (SafeLives)