Equality and Human Rights Commission

Our ‘Who Do you See? Living together in Wales’ research found that 19% of the Welsh population believe that domestic abuse is best handled as a private matter. However, domestic abuse is not a private matter –domestic abuse is your business.

‘It’s our business’ tells the story of a domestic abuse survivor.  This real life experience demonstrates how vital a domestic abuse policy is in enabling those experiencing domestic abuse to safely access services and information that can ultimately save their lives.

Why is action needed in the workplace?

• Domestic abuse currently costs UK businesses over £1.9 billion a year.
• In the UK, in any one year, more than 20% of employed women take time off work because of domestic violence, and 2% lose their jobs as a direct result of the abuse.
• 75% of women that experience domestic abuse are targeted at work – from harassing phone calls and abusive partners arriving at the office unannounced, to physical assaults.

What can employers do?

We are encouraging employers to take action so that skilled and experienced staff are able to retain their jobs and feel safe and supported in the workplace. We have welcomed the opportunity to work a range of partners to develop a range of practical support for both employers and staff to use:

• Guidance for developing a domestic abuse workplace policy
• Domestic abuse is your business - Trade Union campaign pack
• Domestic abuse is your business - Employers campaign pack.
• Bridget’s story – the business case for having a policy
• Why employers should take action leaflet
• Domestic abuse is your business poster
• Top ten tips for employers
• Better public services – breaking the silence on violence against women

Related links

• Violence Against Women Campaign-Asking For It?
• Map of Gaps