We’ve just launched a new initiative aimed at getting businesses involved in tackling domestic abuse, with the first date set for 10th May (see flyer at bottom of page). The new one-hour business briefing session is aiming to highlight the ways businesses can support employees experiencing domestic abuse.
Domestic Abuse Workplace Statistics
It’s estimated that domestic abuse affects around 10% of the workforce and also costs the UK’s economy £1.9 billion each year, with money lost through absenteeism and sick pay costs, decreased productivity, and recruitment costs. These statistics mean that it is very likely that some of your colleagues or employees will have experienced (or be experiencing) domestic abuse. By undertaking domestic abuse training and having policies in place, these figures could be drastically reduced and it could stop issues escalating to the point of serious harm or homicide.
Duty of Care
The business briefing will also cover requirements that employers meet their duty of care to keep their staff physically and emotionally safe at work.
Myron Larkowsky, Managing Director of EKS Living Clean, attended one of our training sessions last year. He said:
“As a result of me attending this training, I sent some of my management staff to attend and we have developed an open-door policy for staff. I think it’s important that businesses are aware of domestic abuse and the impact it can have on someone’s work life, and not just their personal life. Leeway does lots of excellent work across the county, and these new business briefings are a great way to engage with local businesses.â€
Raising Awareness
We currently offer regular, cost-effective, training to individuals and organisations, to raise awareness and spot the signs of domestic abuse. Last year, we trained over 700 people.
Mandy Proctor, Chief Executive of Leeway, said:
“Businesses have a really important role to play in supporting their staff that may be experiencing domestic abuse, so I am delighted that we are able to launch this new initiative. The figures speak volumes of the extent that domestic abuse affects businesses, and we feel that we can work together with businesses, giving them expert guidance on how to support their staff.â€
The new business briefing sessions costs £20 each, with refreshments and free parking provided. For more details or to book your place, contact Leeway on 0300 561 0077 or email admin@leewaynwa.org.uk.
