We want to make sure that local businesses in West Sussex have all the information you need regarding your responsibilities as employers. This is laid out in the Domestic Abuse Statutory Guidance 2021. We also want to make employers aware of the range of support for victims of domestic abuse so you can support your employees.
Employers have an important role to play in helping victims of domestic abuse to remain in work, in the workplace itself and to help victims access the support they need through signposting to specialist services and raising awareness about domestic abuse.
All employers need to consider what action they can take in relation to this role and their responsibilities. Employers continue to have a pivotal role as new ways of working in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, including home working and hybrid working, are established.
For those experiencing abuse, the workplace can often offer a safe space and a respite away from the perpetrator. Colleagues and managers can often be the only people outside the home that victims talk to each day and are therefore uniquely placed to help spot signs of abuse.
Developing a policy and raising awareness within organisations is key to supporting victims of domestic abuse and ensuring they feel safe to disclose their situation. Equally, small gestures such as allowing time off when needed, offering emotional support, safety planning and knowing how to put people in touch with domestic abuse services and charities is vital.
Action for you if you are an employer
You can access the Public Health England and Business In The Community employers domestic abuse toolkit. This toolkit will help your organisation to support your employees and contribute to tackling domestic abuse. Helpful information can also be found on the Safelives website.
The WSCC domestic abuse pages also provide information on:
- spotting signs of an abusive relationship
- local and national support services for people experiencing domestic abuse
- domestic abuse information for professionals.