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The Intersection of Domestic Violence and the Workplace- How Employers Can Support Survivors

At CAPSA, we understand the devastating impact that domestic violence can have on survivors, including its impact on their employment. Domestic violence can result in physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial instability that can make it difficult for survivors to perform their jobs. We also know that creating a safe and supportive workplace for survivors of domestic violence is essential. As an organization that works to end domestic violence and sexual assault, we want to share some best practices for employers to support employees who are survivors.  

THE IMPACT OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ON THE WORKPLACE

Domestic violence can have a significant impact on the workplace, both for survivors and their colleagues. In addition to physical injuries and emotional trauma, survivors may experience increased absenteeism, decreased productivity, and a higher risk of turnover. This can have a ripple effect on the workplace environment as a whole, leading to decreased morale and increased tension among colleagues. The perpetrator’s behavior can also impact the safety and well-being of other employees. 

BEST PRACTICES FOR CREATING A SAFE AND SUPPORTIVE WORKPLACE

To create a safe and supportive workplace for survivors of domestic violence, employers can implement several best practices: 

  1. Ensure employees recognize the workplace supports survivors of domestic violence. This includes understanding the availability of domestic violence support resources in your area. CAPSA is the local resource for Cache Valley and the Bear Lake Area.  One way to do this is to have CAPSA signage around your workplace.  
  1. Engage in identifying a safe and confidential location where a survivor could meet with a CAPSA advocate at the workplace. We are happy to provide this response if needed, call 435-753-2500. 
  1. Provide Training for Employees: CAPSA can provide training in your business – more information can be found at www.capsa.org/business.  
  1. Provide Flexible Work Arrangements: Employers can provide survivors with flexible work arrangements, such as telecommuting or flexible schedules, to help them manage the impact of domestic violence on their job. 
  1. Protect the confidentiality and privacy of survivors by limiting the disclosure of their personal information to those who need to know for safety reasons; avoiding gossip or judgment; and respecting their choices and boundaries. 
  1. Offer support and assistance to survivors by listening to them empathetically; validating their feelings and experiences; expressing concern for their safety; and referring them to CAPSA.

As an employer, creating a supportive work environment will support survivors of domestic violence and improve your overall work environment. 

If you are interested in learning more or collaborating with us on this issue, please contact Alyna Ohling at community@capsa.org or (435) 753-2500. 

 

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Hope Begins with Communities

Highlighting our work and collaboration at city councils across Cache Valley is one way we engage with the communities that we support and that support us. We believe that bringing awareness is vital to ensuring that survivors in all areas get the help they need. These presentations are given twice annually, once in April for Sexual Assault Awareness Month and once in October for Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

At CAPSA, we know that hope begins when survivors feel supported by their community. To give hope to survivors we encourage communities and individuals to start by believing and help connect survivors to CAPSA. We have several programs and services that work collaboratively to offer hope and support. One of our core services is advocacy, provided by our Casework team.

We have 6 outreach caseworkers and 4 outreach casework interns at CAPSA. Our caseworkers are often the first to have these hard and personal conversations with survivors of sexual assault and rape. During these conversations, our caseworkers help survivors understand their feelings, their reactions, and help normalize all of it. They approach every conversation in a way that gives power and control back to the survivor and empowers them to make choices that are best for them.

In terms of statistics, last year:

  • There were 39 Forensic Sexual Assault Examinations done at Cache Valley Hospital that our team responded to.
  • 52% of our clients disclosed sexual assault either as a primary or secondary survivor.
  • CAPSA assisted a total of 631 sexual assault clients.

 

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Introducing Scott Wyatt and Derek Carlsen

CAPSA’s volunteer board of directors is crucial in guiding the organization’s vision. These dedicated individuals devote their time and expertise to ensure CAPSA remains focused on effectively supporting victims of domestic and sexual violence. We are deeply grateful for their unwavering commitment to creating lasting change for survivors and the community, and we take pride in our exceptional board.

With great pleasure, we introduce our newest volunteer board members, Scott Wyatt and Derek Carlsen, who will further strengthen our team and contribute to CAPSA’s ongoing mission.

SCOTT WYATT

Scott Wyatt boasts an extensive background in law, politics, and education. As the former Cache County Attorney, he was known for his commitment to upholding justice and supporting victims of domestic and sexual violence. His legal experience and dedication to the community continued as a member of the Utah House of Representatives from 2005 to 2007. Scott’s leadership extends into higher education, where he served as the 15th president of Snow College and the 16th president of Southern Utah University.

“I am amazed to see how much CAPSA has grown. Jill and her team have built one of the most impressive nonprofit organizations I’ve ever seen. We are so fortunate to have them serving our neighbors and friends in need of their services.” – Scott Wyatt

DEREK CARLSEN

Derek Carlsen has over 20 years of human resources experience with Schreiber Foods and previously ThermoFisher. A prime example of Derek’s strategic leadership is the implementation of a free health clinic for Schreiber Foods’ employees, aimed at enhancing their overall well-being and serving as a recruitment and retention tool. Recently promoted to Regional HR Director, Derek now oversees multiple Schreiber plants, expanding his influence and support for CAPSA within the corporate sector. Derek plays a pivotal role in maintaining CAPSA’s connection with Schreiber Foods as a home sponsor and golf participant.

“It’s truly an honor to join CAPSA’s board of directors and contribute to an organization dedicated to transforming survivors’ lives. I’ve long admired CAPSA’s exceptional work, and I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to actively participate in their mission as a board member.” – Derek Carlsen

The inclusion of Scott Wyatt and Derek Carlsen in CAPSA’s already outstanding board of directors not only reinforces the board’s steadfast commitment to advocate for and support survivors of domestic and sexual violence, but also bolsters CAPSA’s capacity to secure vital resources to address the needs of survivors. We are thrilled to integrate their unique perspectives and experiences into our board, enriching the collective expertise of our existing members.

Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Scott and Derek as they embark on their journey with CAPSA, further fortifying our mission and impact in the community.