Most UK workplaces will employ both victim-survivors and perpetrators of domestic abuse. In response to employers expressing a lack of confidence in responding to employees who abuse, EIDA and Respect have run a campaign to equip employers with tools and knowledge to address perpetrators, as part of their workplace response to domestic abuse.
It is important for workplaces to make clear that domestic abuse is not tolerated and that those who abuse will be held to account. Employers can promote cultures of respect, build awareness of domestic abuse and make clear the behaviours that are unacceptable. They can signpost employees to expert services that support those who want to change their behaviours. They can also make clear that disciplinary action will be taken in appropriate cases. In this work, it is critical for employers to ensure that the safety of those being abused is central to any workplace interaction with employees who perpetrate abuse.
This resource will support employers to get started on their workplace response to perpetrators of domestic abuse. It has been produced by EIDA in partnership with Respect, and involves collaboration with organisations across the domestic abuse sector, independent experts, victim-survivors of domestic abuse, and learnings from our network of employer members.
We plan to build on this work and welcome feedback on this resource, as well as suggestions for areas where employers want further guidance.
