Domestic abuse: Guidance for people professionals on managing and supporting employees

Domestic abuse can destroy lives, leaving physical and emotional scars. Those experiencing domestic abuse can find themselves isolated from friends and family and lose their independence. It can take many forms, not just physical abuse. It can also include, but is not limited to, financial, emotional and psychological abuse, as well as coercive control. 

Domestic abuse has an impact at work. Domestic abuse can negatively affect those abused as well as their workplace colleagues. However, importantly, the workplace can often be one of the few places that a person experiencing abuse can be separate from their abuser and experience some independence. This means that work can be the place where people can ask for and access support, and feel safe to speak about their experience. 

It’s essential that employers are knowledgeable about domestic abuse as they are ideally placed to offer key support. The aim of this guidance is to encourage more employers to take an active supporting role.