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Employers urged to support victims of domestic abuse

The government is calling on employers to ensure they’re spotting signs of domestic abuse and helping their staff find the right support.

There has been a surge in calls to domestic abuser services during the continuing lockdowns. In an open letter, the Business Minister outlines seven practical steps employer can take:

  1. raise awareness of domestic abuse
  2. don’t over-complicating things
  3. be inclusive
  4. ask what you can offer
  5. make your support clear to all
  6. involve experts, and
  7. use the free support available

The open letter comes as the government publishes the final report from its Review into Workplace Support for Victims of Domestic Abuse, which was launched in June 2020 to collect evidence on what more both the government and employers can do to try and tackle all forms of domestic abuse. The government will consult on the steps that can be taken so survivors can better exercise their existing employment rights, such as the right to request flexible working.

See also: Employers’ Initiative on Domestic Abuse, CIPD guidance, and this briefing note from SafeLives.