Why understanding the dynamics of domestic abuse is essential in the workplace

Both police and charity data since the Covid-19 lockdowns began last March show respectively a rise in offences of domestic abuse and in calls to helplines.  Remote working for some has meant increased isolation and spending more time in their most dangerous environment.  For employers, it has made it even more difficult to spot the warning signs of domestic abuse.

The workplace can be a safe place and provide a vital source of support for those experiencing domestic abuse.  Their abuser may already have isolated them from friends and family, leaving the workplace as perhaps their only remaining avenue to talk to someone in confidence and get help with finding the right support.

Call to action for employers

Last month Paul Scully, a Government minister in the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, released an open letter to employers calling on them to help “burst the stigma associated with domestic abuse”.  The letter was published on the same day as the Government’s final report from its Review into Workplace Support for Victims of Domestic Abuse which examined the existing support in the workplace for domestic abuse victims and how this could be extended and improved.

In his open letter, Paul Scully stressed that he is not asking for employers and colleagues to become specialists in handling domestic abuse, but that they create a workplace environment where everyone feels comfortable raising an issue and one in which managers and colleagues can act as a bridge between an employee and the support they need.

Training to create awareness and understanding of the dynamics of domestic abuse

As creating awareness often starts with training, we thought it timeous to highlight the workplace training we can deliver in this long-overlooked area.

Taking a similar approach to our training in Mental Health, our courses aim to help increase understanding, build confidence to ask the right questions and encourage open and honest conversation.

Training in the dynamics of domestic abuse builds awareness of the complexities of abusive behaviour and enables participants to spot the signs that someone may be a victim.  They will learn how to respond and intervene appropriately to support victims and help prevent repeated abuse.

A supportive classroom environment is created by the trainer who has years of experience in domestic abuse policy development and training delivery, ensuring participants feel safe to discuss the dynamics of abusive behaviour.  Both the length and exact content of each course can be individually tailored.  The training is suitable for anyone in the workplace, particularly those in positions providing support such as HR, line managers, team leaders and mental health first aiders.

Find out more about our Understanding the Dynamics of Domestic Abuse training here.