Equality and Human Rights Commission

On Thursday 29 September, more than 30 organisations from across North Wales came together at an event to encourage action on tackling domestic abuse.

The ‘domestic abuse is your business’ conference, organised by the Equality and Human Rights Commission and the Welsh Government, encourages organisations to recognise the impact of domestic abuse in the workplace and to implement effective domestic abuse policies.

Domestic abuse isn’t confined to the home as 75% of women who experience domestic abuse at home are also harassed by their abusers in the workplace. Domestic abuse costs UK businesses £2.7 billion in lost economic output every year. One in four women experience domestic abuse at some point in their lifetime.

On Thursday, delegates from some of Wales’ largest public and private sector employers, HR specialists, third sector organisations and trade unions heard how, by taking a number of small practical steps on domestic abuse, they can reduce sickness, absence, save money and save lives. The event was held at Plas Pentwyn, Enterprise & Lifelong Learning Centre, Coedpoeth, operated by Wrexham County Borough Council.

Speakers included Stuart McKenna from the Co-operative Group - one of the private sector organisations leading the way by having an effective domestic abuse policy in place.

Ann Beynon, Wales Commissioner, Equality and Human Rights Commission, another of the speakers at the conference, said:

“Domestic abuse has an impact on productivity and performance so supporting staff makes perfect business sense.

“We provide a range of tools, guidance and tips to help employers take action on domestic abuse.

“All employers have a duty of care, regardless of their size or workforce. Taking action and implementing a number of small steps is a good investment to retain skilled and experienced staff, as they will feel safe and supported thus increasing their commitment to you as an employer.”

Wales' Local Government and Communities Minister Carl Sargeant said:

"Domestic abuse often happens behind closed doors and can affect any workplace and any employee, from the person you manage to the person who manages you.

"Both men and women can be victims and the tell-tale signs may not always be obvious. That’s why it is important that all staff are equipped to recognise the signs and know what to do if they suspect that someone they work with is a victim of abuse.

"Support in the work place can make all the difference and help provide the confidence to be able to move forward. Over the last year, we have funded a number of support centres across Wales, specifically to help victims deal with the consequences of abuse and support them as they rebuild their lives.

"Earlier this month I launched the Welsh Government's 'Live Fear Free' campaign, the latest in a series of high profile activities to raise awareness and challenge attitudes towards domestic abuse in Wales.

"I hope that the conference will help spread the message that domestic abuse is not acceptable. The Welsh Government is determined to work with all employers to provide help and support to enable all their staff to live fear free."

Anyone suffering from domestic abuse is advised to call the Wales Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 80 10 800 for free, confidential advice 24 hours a day.