A toolkit helping employers to tackle domestic violence has been released by Public Health England (PHE).
PHE hopes the toolkit will raise awareness of an issue that impacts health, wellbeing, and absence and turn over in the workplace.
The toolkit, aimed at businesses that lack an infrastructure to deal with domestic violence, provides resources for businesses to take part in the 16 Days of Action awareness campaign from 25 November to 10 December 2014.
Workplaces utilising the toolkit – which was developed by Corporate Alliance Against Domestic Violence (CAADV) – may be better equipped to acknowledge the signs that domestic violence may be happening.
Companies who are interested in eliminating the impact of domestic violence in the workplace should do so by joining the Alliance.
Professor Kevin Fenton, director of health and wellbeing at Public Health England, said: “It is unacceptable that in England and Wales, 2 women a week die as a result of domestic violence, and many more suffer physical and mental harm.
“Workplaces are a safe space for many people living in violence and are key for providing opportunities for disclosure and support into safety. As it stands, companies can do more to support their employees who experience domestic abuse, train those who witness, and protect staff as a whole.
“Signing up to the pledge and using the toolkit not only means businesses are supporting their staff and securing safety in the workplace, but they will also save on financial loss due to absence and turnover. It is a win win for businesses and we urge them to utilise this resource.”
More information is available on the official website.
