Supportive employers campaign launched by WHAG to tackle impact of domestic abuse on workplaces

The aim of the campaign is to reduce domestic abuse through the implementation of new practices and policies

Local employers are being encouraged to join a new campaign by Rochdale charity WHAG to prevent the negative impact of domestic abuse on the workplace.

WHAG – formerly the Women’s Housing Action Group – hopes that the campaign will reduce domestic abuse through the implementation of new practices and policies, similar to the maternity leave policy, to support and protect employees. Practices include awareness training for employees and training for managers and HR teams to handle instances of disclosure.

Several businesses have already signed up as allies including Online4Baby and H Bell and Sons (Rochdale) Ltd.

According to the Equality Human Rights Commission, domestic abuse costs UK businesses approximately £2.7 billion a year and says that 75% of women who experience domestic abuse are targeted at their place of work. This ranges from receiving harassing phone calls to abusive partners committing physical assault at their partner's work premises.

Statistically, at least 10% of employees are likely to be victims of domestic abuse each year, with more than 20% of employed women having to take time off work, costing millions per year to businesses due to absenteeism, loss of productivity and other factors.

Domestic abuse affects all genders with Mankind reporting that 757,000 men experienced domestic abuse in 2020. Additional risks and barriers are also present for LGBT+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender plus other non-binary sexualities and identities) and BAME (Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic) communities. With the rise of hybrid and work-from-home models due to the pandemic, the safety of the workplace has been reduced for many victims. Furthermore, the Business in the Community network has reported that domestic abuse incidents have risen since the increase of hybrid working.

Kirsty Rhodes, CEO of WHAG said: “We are delighted to launch the Supportive Employers Campaign and are really pleased that businesses have already pledged to raise awareness and support their employees.

“We hope this will make a difference in supporting employees to come forward and employers to support their staff.”

To join the campaign and become an ally, contact Marinah Mustapha on 01706 298 222 or log on to www.whag.info.