domestic abuse is your business ann beynon commissioner for wales equality and human rights...
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Domestic abuse is your business
Ann BeynonCommissioner for Wales
Equality and Human Rights Commission
16 February 2011
Equality and Human Rights
Commission catalyst for change
• Evidence driven
• Effective regulator
• Professional expert leader
Many employees are affected by
domestic abuse• 1 in 4 women experience domestic abuse
• 2 women a week are killed by (ex-) partners in England and Wales
• On average a women is assaulted 35 times before seeking assistance
Domestic abuse is a human rights and equality issue
• Domestic abuse denies women and girls the most fundamental of human rights
• Equality Act – third party harassment and public sector duty
• Duty of care under Health and Safety legislation
Domestic abuse impacts on
productivity 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 cost the UK economy £2.7 billion
Top Ten Tips• Be aware that domestic abuse can take
many different forms
• Talk about domestic abuse
• Look for sudden changes in behaviour/quality of work
• Look for changes in dress
• Believe an employee- do not ask for proof
Top Ten Tips• Move an employee out of public view
• Divert phone calls and email messages
• Alert reception and security staff
• Put up domestic abuse helpline posters on the back of toilet doors
• Have a list of the support services offered in your area
You can make a difference• A domestic abuse workplace policy can
provide guidance and support
• Raising awareness can tackle attitudes and behaviour
• Training can allow staff to fully understand domestic abuse
Taking action works• A good investment to retain skilled and
experienced staff
• Staff will feel safe and supported – increasing their commitment to you as an employer
• You can reduce sickness absence, save money and save lives
Digital Story
EHRC toolkit• Digital story
• Practical tips and guidance for developing a policy
• Bridget’s story – the business case for having a policy
Further information tel: 029 20447710
www.equalityhumanrights.com/yourbusiness