EIDA ambassadors are vocal advocates for our cause, helping us raise awareness of the role employers can play in tackling domestic abuse.
They include courageous survivors of domestic abuse.
Sally Benatar QPM
London Sport Vice-Chair, former Metropolitan Police officer
"One of my police colleagues said to me when I told him about my situation: “If domestic abuse can happen to the Borough Commander, it can happen to anyone!” I agree with this. It took me a long time to acknowledge that I was in a controlling and abusive marriage and I used work as my refuge to hide what was happening at home. I’m determined to help employers recognise their responsibilities to raise awareness and to provide support and signposting to their staff impacted by domestic abuse."
Sam Billingham’s experience of domestic abuse highlights the critical impact an employer can have on the wellbeing of a victim. After reporting her abuse, Sam was fired, leaving her in a more vulnerable position, and also making her feel further isolated and alone. For employers, there are key lessons to be learnt from her experiences. Businesses do not have to save their employees from abuse, but those that acknowledge, address, and adapt to support domestic abuse victims can make a vital difference in their lives.
Sarah Brown
“As a survivor of domestic abuse, I’m keen to raise awareness by sharing my experiences. I have lost jobs because I was dealing with domestic abuse and companies were not equipped to help and support me. I want other victims to know that things are changing. Fortunately, more and more employers are in a place now where they can support their employees, especially with help and guidance from EIDA. No-one suffering from domestic abuse needs to feel isolated as resources are available to get through the difficult times.”
Charlotte’s story highlights the daunting challenges that victims can face when navigating the family court system. In her case, magistrates had little to no experience of domestic abuse. Forced to represent herself, Charlotte had to face her perpetrator, a drug addict who had already been arrested for attacking her, and who was subjecting her to post-separation abuse. For employers, there are lessons to be learnt around understanding what victims go through during court proceedings, and how best to support their employees during the process.
Natalie Curtis
Safety & Sustainability Specialist, Balfour Beatty
“I’m absolutely passionate about raising awareness and educating others on Domestic Abuse. My employer’s response was very supportive, I’m always thankful for their constant support. It’s time to talk openly about Domestic Abuse to help end the stigma. We only have to look at the heart-breaking statistics to see how many victims/survivors are affected by this devastating crime.”
Dawn Grant
"Having been involved in domestic abuse in a personal and professional manner for many years and having seen the impact of domestic abuse, which affects every aspect of a person’s life, EIDA and its reach has such an important role to play in offering support and guidance to employers to offer the essential ingredients to assist anyone who may be going through domestic abuse. I am privileged to be an ambassador of EIDA and look forward to meeting organisations and assisting them on their journey to offering support to their employees."
Shital Kuchhadia
Founder of FREE2bYou, Associate Domestic Abuse trainer with SafeLives
"It is my honour to be an Ambassador for EIDA. I believe that everyone should experience and 'live' life without abuse, feeling trapped, suffering in silence or isolation.
"I am committed to raising awareness on Domestic Abuse and healthy relationships. I believe empowerment and education are the keys to building a firm foundation and making a difference to individual lives and the wider community."
Andrew Lane
"Domestic Abuse doesn’t respect office hours, and no one leaves their home life at the door when they enter the workplace. For victims and survivors of domestic abuse, their employer can be a lifeline – whether as a listening ear, a source of reassurance, or a gateway to support in rebuilding shattered confidence. EIDA plays a vital role in helping employers navigate these complex responsibilities and, having experienced the difference a supportive, informed employer can make, I could not be more proud to represent them as an ambassador."
