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Developing a domestic abuse workplace policy Helen Snow, Senior Associate, Geldards LLP Jennifer Dunne, EHRC

Developing a domestic abuse workplace policy

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Developing a domestic abuse workplace policy

Helen Snow, Senior Associate, Geldards LLP

Jennifer Dunne, EHRC

Equality and Human Rights Commission• Created October 1st 2007• Independent statutory body• Promote and protect human rights• Protect, enforce and promote equality

Domestic abuseCan include a wide range of abusive and controlling behaviours, including:•Physical•Psychological•Emotional•Sexual •Financial control

Domestic Abuse Quiz

Question 1How many women experience domestic abuse in their lifetime?

A.1 in 50

B.1 in 10

C.1 in 4

Question 2What % of the Welsh population think that

domestic abuse is best handled as a private matter rather than by the police?

A.4 %

B.9 %

C.19 %

Question 3In the UK, how many women a year are killed by a current of ex- partner?

A.10

B. 50

C.100

D.200

Question 4How many times is a woman likely to experience physical abuse before reporting it?

A.10 times

B.25 times

C.35 times

Question 5Women are most at risk of life threatening or fatal violence when they

A.Remain in the violent situation

B.Attempt to leave the violent situation

C.Have recently left the violence situation

Question 6What steps can employers take to address domestic abuse?

A.Have a workplace policy

B.Provide training

C.Build awareness through a campaign

D.All of the above

Domestic abuse is a human rights and equality issue• Human Rights

– European Convention on Human Rights– Human Rights Act 1998

• Equality Act 2010 –public sector equality duty

The employer’s role

Domestic abuse impacts onproductivity and performance• 75% of women who experience domestic abuse

are targeted in the workplace• 53% of abused women miss at least 3 days of

work a month• Domestic abuse costs the UK economy £1.9

billion

The effect on your organisation• Decreased productivity and performance

management issues• Administrative difficulties• Absence management issues

– Sick pay (possibly enhanced)– Cover– Wellbeing of other team members

• Increased employee turnover

Developing a policyA workplace policy will•Raise awareness of domestic abuse•Identify responsibilities•Provide a framework for managers and staff•Ensure a provision of support and safety

Implementing a policy• Top down buy-in• Training• Publicise and communicate the policy• Raise awareness• Review and monitor policy

The role of managers• First line of communication• Facilitate the conversation• Ask the difficult questions• Non-judgmental and supportive environment• Don’t be a hero!

Top ten tips1. Look for changes in behaviour and/or changes

in the quality of work performance for unexplained reasons

2. Look for changes in the way an employee dresses i.e. excessive clothing on hot days, changes in make-up worn

3. Believe an employee if they disclose experiencing DA

Top ten tips4. Reassure the employee that the organisation has

an understanding of how DA may affect their work performance and the support that can be offered

5. Divert phone calls and email messages

6. Agree with the employee what to tell colleagues and how they should respond if their ex/ partner telephones or visits the workplace

Top ten tips7. Ensure the employee does not work alone or

in an isolated area

8. Keep a record of any incidents of abuse in the workplace,

9. Put up helpline posters on the back of toilet doors

10. Have a list of the support services offered in your area

Taking action works• A good investment to retain skilled and

experienced staff• Staff will feel safe and supported = more

disclosures• Reduce sickness absence, save money and save

lives

EHRC toolkit• Digital story• Practical tips and guidance for developing a

policy• Bridget’s story – the business case for having a

policy

Digital story

Further informationJennifer Dunne, EHRC

DD: 029 2044 7710

E: [email protected]

W: www.equalityhumanrights.com/yourbusiness

Helen Snow, Senior Associate, Geldards LLP

DD: 029 2039 1497E: [email protected]

DiscussionHow can employers play a stronger role in raising awareness, identifying responsibilities and responding to the early signs of domestic abuse?

Thank You