The impact of domestic violence extends beyond the home and can even reach the workplace. According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, “A total of eight million days of paid work are lost by survivors of domestic violence each year… A survey by the Corporate Alliance to End Partner Violence found that 64% of respondents who were victims or survivors reported relationship abuse impacted their ability to work. 40% said their abusive partner harassed them at work via phone and in person.”
Employers have a unique opportunity to offer support to employees who may be affected by domestic violence, to help them feel safe, valued, and cared for. Here are some tips to help make your workplace a safe place for survivors!
A very special thank you to Mosaic’s Operations and HR team for sharing some of our internal best practices and resources!
  • Approach Gently
    • If you suspect someone may be experiencing domestic violence, approach them privately and express concern in a non-judgmental way.
    • Offer Support, Not Solutions. The goal is to provide a safe space for the victim to open up, not to solve their problem for them. Avoid pressuring the victim to leave or take immediate action.
  • Create a Safety Plan
    • Work with affected employees to create a safety plan within the workplace. This could include changing work locations, preparing exit strategies, providing parking close to the building, or ensuring that their contact information remains confidential.
    • Enhance workplace security measures, such as informing reception or security teams about specific threats and ensuring restricted access for potential abusers.
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP):
    • Offer EAPs that provide confidential counseling services so that employees affected by domestic violence can access mental health professionals who specialize in trauma.
    • EAP programs often include legal services that can help employees navigate the complexities of domestic violence cases, such as protective orders or custody issues.
    • Remind employees of available mental health and counseling services through EAP programs.
  • Flexibility:
    • Recognize that domestic violence causes stress and trauma, and victims may have trouble focusing on tasks and deadlines. Respond to a decline in work performance with grace and assign tasks to other employees as needed.
    • For employees facing immediate safety concerns, remote work or adjusted work hours can provide them with flexibility and reduce stress.
    • Employers can offer additional paid or unpaid leave to allow affected employees time to handle legal appointments, court hearings, or medical care without worrying about job security.
  • Policies and Procedures
    • Ensure the workplace has clear anti-violence and anti-harassment policies in place. Employees should be aware of their rights and protections against any form of domestic violence or harassment.
    • Offer job protection for employees who may need to take time off due to domestic violence-related issues, ensuring they feel secure in their employment.
  • Training and Workshops
    • Provide training to managers and HR personnel on how to recognize the signs of domestic violence and how to respond appropriately and sensitively.
    • Invite a local domestic violence agency such as Mosaic to share information and present to employees.
  • Confidentiality
    • Ensure that all conversations about domestic violence are confidential and that employees feel safe discussing their needs or reporting any concerns about domestic violence.
    • Offer private spaces where employees can discuss their situation with HR or supervisors without fear of being overheard.
  • Raise Awareness
    • Have information about local shelters and resources readily available to employees. HR departments can host informational sessions, distribute materials, and promote resources like hotlines and shelters.
    • Organize awareness campaigns during DV Awareness Month to educate employees about domestic violence, signs to look for, and available resources. Raising awareness about domestic violence empowers survivors to speak out and seek help.
  • Additional Resources for Employers:
    • Workplaces Respond to Domestic & Sexual Violence: A project that provides resources to help employers address domestic violence in the workplace. They offer model policies and guidance on how to support employees affected by domestic violence.
    • Futures Without Violence: This organization offers a toolkit for employers on creating workplace safety plans, awareness programs, and HR training focused on domestic violence.