Respond
If you decide to talk to an employee or coworker about the abuse they are experiencing, listen with an open mind. Don’t make assumptions, judgments or give advice about the situation. Don’t advise them to leave the relationship, since violence often escalates when the victim leaves or threatens to leave their abuser.
Promote and respect privacy – don’t allow the situation to become a topic of office gossip. Be sensitive to the seriousness of the situation. Ask for assistance from Human Resources or other designated personnel in your company.
Encourage your company to develop a relationship with your local domestic violence shelter or domestic violence prevention program; they have information, brochures, speakers and volunteer opportunities. Invite them to make presentations that your staff can attend.
Urge your company to develop a workplace policy on domestic violence.
Keep copies of records or restraining orders. Encourage the affected employee or coworker to save harassing calls/emails.
If you have security personnel, develop a safety plan for the employee and make a picture of the abusive partner available to key staff members.
Seek continuing education training for human resource personnel and key staff members to broaden your company’s expertise in addressing domestic violence in the workplace.
