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Breaking the Silence: CAPSA’s Commitment to Sexual Assault Awareness Month 

April is a month of profound significance – it marks Sexual Assault Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, supporting survivors, and advocating for change. At CAPSA, we stand at the forefront of this crucial movement, determined to break the silence and create a safer, more informed community for all.  

This April, CAPSA is making its presence known throughout Cache Valley with a bold and impactful awareness campaign. From vibrant yard signs and X-frames to striking vinyl banners, our message is clear: sexual assault is unacceptable, survivors deserve support, and together, we can make a difference. As these signs dot the landscape, they serve as powerful symbols of solidarity and support for survivors, and reminders that their voices matter. 

Continuing the Conversation: Education and Advocacy 

But our work doesn’t stop with signage. At CAPSA, we are committed to continuing our efforts to raise awareness through education and advocacy. Throughout the month, we’ll be conducting trainings and workshops to equip community members with the knowledge and tools they need to prevent sexual violence and support survivors. Additionally, we’ll be visiting city councils to speak on the importance of believing survivors and advocating for policies that prioritize their safety and well-being. By engaging with local leaders and decision-makers, we hope to spark meaningful change and foster a community that believes, supports, and empowers survivors. 

Observing Denim Day: A Symbol of Solidarity 

As part of our observance of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, CAPSA will be observing Denim Day on April 26th. Denim Day is a global campaign that originated in protest of a court ruling that overturned a rape conviction because the survivor was wearing tight jeans. By wearing denim on this day, we stand in solidarity with survivors and send a powerful message that clothing choices are never an invitation for sexual violence. It’s a simple yet impactful way to show our support and raise awareness about the prevalence of victim-blaming attitudes. 

Join Us in Breaking the Silence 

This April, we invite you to join us in breaking the silence surrounding sexual assault. Whether it’s by displaying a yard sign, wearing denim on Denim Day, or simply starting a conversation with friends and family, your actions can make a difference. Together, let’s raise our voices, raise awareness, and create a community where survivors are believed, supported, and empowered. 

Here to Help 

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing survivor-centered services that meet the unique needs of everyone who seeks our support. When you call CAPSA at 435-753-2500, you can expect a warm and welcoming response, information and support, advocacy and support, and confidentiality. We want survivors to know that they are not alone and that they have the power to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, please don’t hesitate to call CAPSA. 

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Self-Care Strategies: Nurturing Your Well-Being After Trauma

In the aftermath of domestic violence or sexual assault, the journey toward healing is deeply personal and often filled with challenges. At Citizens Against Physical and Sexual Abuse (CAPSA), we understand that prioritizing your well-being is an essential part of the healing process. In this blog post, we explore practical self-care strategies tailored for survivors, focusing on nurturing your mental, emotional, and physical health as you navigate the path to recovery.

1. Embrace Mindfulness Practices: Finding Peace in the Present

Tip: Incorporate mindfulness techniques into your daily routine to ground yourself in the present moment. Whether through meditation, deep breathing exercises, or mindful walks, these practices can help alleviate anxiety and promote a sense of calm.

2. Establish Boundaries: Prioritizing Your Comfort and Safety

Tip: Clearly define and communicate your boundaries to others. Establishing boundaries is a crucial aspect of self-care, enabling you to protect your emotional and mental well-being. Learn to say no without guilt when needed.

3. Cultivate a Support System: Connecting with Allies

Tip: Surround yourself with individuals who offer genuine support and understanding. Whether friends, family, or support groups, having a network of allies can provide emotional reinforcement during challenging times.

4. Engage in Therapeutic Practices: Art, Writing, or Journaling

Tip: Explore therapeutic practices such as art, writing, or journaling to express and process your emotions. Creative outlets can serve as powerful tools for self-discovery and emotional release.

5. Prioritize Physical Health: Nourishing Your Body and Mind

Tip: Pay attention to your physical health by incorporating nourishing foods, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep into your routine. Physical well-being is interconnected with mental and emotional health.

6. Seek Professional Support: Therapy and Counseling

Tip: Consider engaging in therapy or counseling to receive professional support tailored to your needs. CAPSA clinical therapists are trauma-informed experts in treating anxiety, depression and or other disorders associated with abuse. CAPSA offers free and confidential clinical therapy for adults, teens, and children.

7. Establish a Routine: Creating Stability in Chaos

Tip: Develop a daily routine that provides structure and stability. Consistency in daily activities can contribute to a sense of control and predictability, fostering a supportive environment for healing.

8. Educate Yourself: Empowering Through Knowledge

Tip: Knowledge is empowering. Educate yourself about trauma, its effects, and the healing process. Understanding your experiences can demystify emotions and contribute to a more informed self-care approach.

9. Celebrate Small Victories: Acknowledging Progress in Healing

Tip: Recognize and celebrate small victories along your healing journey. Whether overcoming a fear, establishing a new boundary, or practicing self-care consistently, each step forward is a triumph worth acknowledging.

Closing Thoughts: A Journey of Healing and Self-Discovery

At CAPSA, we recognize the resilience within every survivor and the importance of prioritizing your well-being. Remember that self-care is not selfish; it is a fundamental aspect of reclaiming your life and nurturing your spirit. As you embark on this journey of healing and self-discovery, know that you are not alone. CAPSA is here to support you, providing resources, counseling, and a community that understands the strength it takes to navigate the path to recovery. Together, we empower survivors to prioritize their well-being and emerge from the shadows of trauma into a future filled with resilience and hope.

Here to Help 

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing survivor-centered services that meet the unique needs of everyone who seeks our support. When you call CAPSA at 435-753-2500, you can expect a warm and welcoming response, information and support, advocacy and support, and confidentiality. We want survivors to know that they are not alone and that they have the power to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, please don’t hesitate to call CAPSA. 

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Hope Begins When You Start by Believing: Why Trauma-Informed Responses Matter for Survivors

At CAPSA, we believe that hope begins when you start by believing. This means that we approach survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence with trauma-informed responses, recognizing the impact that trauma can have on individuals and prioritizing their safety and well-being.  

Why Trauma-Informed Responses Matter 

Trauma-informed responses are essential for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence because of the impact that trauma can have on individuals. Responding in an appropriate, trauma-informed manner helps prioritize survivors’ safety and well-being. When survivors come forward, they are often met with skepticism and blame, which can exacerbate the trauma they have experienced. Trauma-informed responses, on the other hand, center the survivor’s experiences and prioritize their needs. 

Trauma-informed responses also recognize that trauma can have long-lasting effects on individuals and that recovery is a process. By providing trauma-informed care, survivors are given the tools and resources they need to cope with the impact of trauma and move toward healing. 

How CAPSA Provides Trauma-Informed Responses 

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing trauma-informed responses to survivors. Here are some of the ways we do this: 

  • Survivor-Centered Approach: CAPSA’s services are survivor-centered, which means that we prioritize the needs and experiences of survivors in all aspects of our work. We recognize that each survivor’s experience is unique, and we believe that survivors are experts in their own experiences and that they should be empowered to make decisions about their own healing journey. We work with survivors to develop safety plans that prioritize their safety and well-being. This includes providing information on legal options, counseling services, and emergency housing, all the while providing survivors with choices and empowering their independence.  
  • Trauma-Informed Care: Our staff receive ongoing training in trauma-informed care to ensure that they have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide effective support to survivors. CAPSA’s staff, including caseworkers and therapists, recognize and understand trauma responses, such as the fight, flight, freeze, or fawn responses. This helps in avoiding re-traumatization and responding appropriately to survivors’ needs.   
  • Peer Support: We offer peer-based support groups for survivors. These groups provide a safe and supportive space for survivors to connect with others who have experienced similar trauma. 
  • Collaboration and Referrals: CAPSA collaborates with other local service providers and agencies to offer comprehensive support, effectively establishing a network for referrals, and ensuring survivors have access to various resources. 
  • Trauma-Informed Programming: CAPSA has developed programs and activities that are mindful of trauma, such as yoga, art therapy, mindfulness practices, and support groups. 
  • Cultural Sensitivity: CAPSA is sensitive to diverse cultural backgrounds and how trauma might intersect with various cultural experiences. At CAPSA, we know that providing culturally competent care is crucial to providing trauma-informed services. 

Here to Help

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing survivor-centered services that meet the unique needs of everyone who seeks our support. When you call CAPSA at 435-753-2500, you can expect a warm and welcoming response, information and support, advocacy and support, and confidentiality. We want survivors to know that they are not alone and that they have the power to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, please don’t hesitate to call CAPSA. 

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CAPSA – Your Expert Trainers on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Prevention

Domestic violence and sexual assault are pervasive problems that affect individuals, families, and communities. As a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting survivors of physical and sexual abuse, CAPSA believes that educating and training employees on these issues is crucial in creating a culture of prevention and support. 

Why Employee Training on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault is Important 

Domestic violence and sexual assault can have significant impacts on individuals and their ability to work. According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, 60% of domestic violence survivors report losing their job as a direct result of their abuse. Additionally, survivors of sexual assault may struggle with physical and emotional effects that can impact their work performance and attendance. By providing training to employees on how to recognize and respond to domestic violence and sexual assault, employers can create a safer and more supportive work environment for all employees. 

How CAPSA Can Help 

CAPSA is a valuable resource for employers seeking to provide training on domestic violence and sexual assault. Our expert staff has extensive experience working with survivors of abuse and can provide customized training that meets the specific needs of each employer. We offer a range of training topics: 

  • CAPSA Service Awareness: participants learn the basics and history of CAPSA as an organization and the services they provide, as well as tips on how to recognize warning signs of abuse, how to respond, and how to appropriately refer survivors to CAPSA.  
  • The Impact of Abuse: a comprehensive definition of violence and how it affects individuals, relationships, communities, and workplaces.  
  • Elder Abuse: a deep dive into how abuse disproportionately affects our elderly communities, how to recognize warning signs, and how to lessen the impact. 
  • How to Be a Trauma-Informed Workplace: a discussion on the definition of trauma, understanding trauma responses, and how workplaces can implement policies, procedures, and practices to better help employees who are healing from trauma.  

Here to Help 

Additionally, CAPSA offers ongoing support to employers who have completed our training. Our staff are available to answer questions, provide resources, and offer additional training as needed. At CAPSA, we are committed to providing survivor-centered services that meet the unique needs of everyone who seeks our support. When you call CAPSA at 435-753-2500, you can expect a warm and welcoming response, information and support, advocacy and support, and confidentiality. We want survivors to know that they are not alone and that they have the power to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, please don’t hesitate to call CAPSA. 

Breaking the Cycle of Violence: How CAPSA Can Help You and Your Family Build a Safe and Thriving Future

Domestic violence is a pervasive problem that affects individuals and families from all walks of life. It can take many forms, including physical, emotional, and financial abuse, and can have long-lasting impacts on survivors and their children. However, it is important to know that there is hope and help available.  

What is CAPSA? 

CAPSA is a community-based nonprofit organization that provides crisis intervention, advocacy, and support to individuals and families affected by domestic violence and sexual assault. CAPSA serves Cache County, Rich County, and Franklin County, and has helped thousands of survivors and their families over the years. 

Breaking the Cycle of Violence 

One of the most important things that CAPSA does is help survivors break the cycle of violence. This means providing survivors with the tools and resources they need to heal from the trauma of abuse and to build a safe and stable life for themselves and their families. 

How CAPSA Can Help 

CAPSA offers a wide range of services to survivors and their families, including crisis intervention, emergency shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, and more. Here are just a few of the ways that CAPSA can help break the cycle of violence and build a safe and thriving future: 

  • Safety Planning 

CAPSA caseworkers can help create a safety plan for survivors currently in abusive situations. A safety plan is a personalized, practical plan that helps survivors stay safe while still living with an abusive partner, or if they are planning to leave the relationship. CAPSA works with survivors to create a safety plan that meets each of their own unique needs and circumstances. 

  • Emergency Shelter 

When survivors need to leave an abusive situation immediately, CAPSA provides emergency shelter. The shelter is a safe and confidential place where survivors can stay while they figure out their next steps. The shelter is staffed 24/7 by trained advocates who can provide support and help survivors connect with other resources they may need. 

  • Counseling and Support Groups 

CAPSA offers individual and group counseling for survivors and their families. Counseling can help survivors process the trauma of abuse, build self-esteem, and develop healthy coping strategies. CAPSA also offers support groups where survivors can connect with others who have experienced similar challenges and share their experiences in a safe and supportive environment. 

  • Legal Advocacy 

CAPSA can also provide legal advocacy and assistance. CAPSA caseworkers work with local legal advocates who can help survivors understand their rights and options, accompany them to court, and connect them with attorneys who can represent them in legal proceedings. 

  • Community Education and Outreach 

CAPSA is committed to raising awareness about domestic violence and sexual assault and to promoting healthy relationships in the community. CAPSA offers a variety of educational programs and workshops for schools, businesses, and other community organizations. 

Building a Safe and Thriving Future 

Breaking the cycle of violence takes time and hard work, but it is possible with the right support and resources. CAPSA can help you and your family build a safe and thriving future. At CAPSA, we are committed to providing survivor-centered services that meet the unique needs of everyone who seeks our support.  

Here to Help

When you call CAPSA at 435-753-2500, you can expect a warm and welcoming response, information and support, advocacy and support, and confidentiality. We want survivors to know that they are not alone and that they have the power to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, please don’t hesitate to call CAPSA. 

How to Recognize Warning Signs of Domestic Violence in the Workplace

Domestic violence is a pervasive problem that can impact all areas of a person’s life, including their work. As a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting survivors of physical and sexual abuse, CAPSA believes that recognizing warning signs of abuse in the workplace is crucial in preventing and responding to these issues. 

Warning Signs of Domestic Violence in the Workplace 

  • Changes in Behavior: If an employee’s behavior changes suddenly, such as becoming more withdrawn or aggressive. 
  • Unexplained Absences or Tardiness: Frequent and unexplained absences or tardiness. 
  • Injuries, or Changes in Appearance: If an employee has unexplained appearance changes or injuries, including bruises, cuts, or broken bones. 
  • Harassment: If an employee is being harassed or stalked by a partner or ex-partner. 
  • Emotional Distress: If an employee appears to be emotionally distressed, including crying or becoming upset frequently. 

What Employers Can Do to Support Survivors 

  • Create a Safe and Supportive Environment: Employers can create a safe and supportive environment by implementing policies that support survivors, such as providing paid leave for domestic violence survivors, implementing a work culture of safety and support, and referring survivors of domestic violence to CAPSA for resources such as casework services, counseling, and emergency shelter.  
  • Offer Training: Employers can offer training to their employees on how to recognize and respond to domestic violence and how to create trauma-informed workplaces. This training can help create a culture of prevention and support in the workplace. CAPSA’s Development and Education departments specialize in providing this type of training and can be contacted for scheduling at 435-753-2500, or by emailing alyna@capsa.org. 
  • Develop a Culture of Trust and Confidentiality: When individuals facing domestic violence are unsafe at home, it is especially essential that they feel safe at their place of employment. Employers can encourage employees to disclose if they are experiencing abuse by creating a culture of trust and confidentiality. It is important, however, for employers to understand that survivors may be hesitant due to fear of retaliation or judgment and that it is important to let them disclose on their own terms and on their own timeline.  

Recognizing warning signs of domestic violence and sexual assault in the workplace is an essential step in preventing and responding to these issues. CAPSA is a valuable resource for employers seeking to support survivors of domestic violence, with expert staff, customized training options, and ongoing support. 

Here to Help 

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing survivor-centered services that meet the unique needs of everyone who seeks our support. When you call CAPSA at 435-753-2500, you can expect a warm and welcoming response, information and support, advocacy and support, and confidentiality. We want survivors to know that they are not alone and that they have the power to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, please don’t hesitate to call CAPSA. 

 

The Intersection of Domestic Violence and Homelessness

Domestic violence is a serious issue that affects millions of people every year. Unfortunately, for many survivors, the trauma of domestic violence can also lead to homelessness. Domestic violence is a leading cause of homelessness for women and their children in the United States. At CAPSA, we understand the intersection between domestic violence and homelessness and are committed to providing resources and support for survivors experiencing housing instability.  

The Connection Between Domestic Violence and Homelessness 

Domestic violence and homelessness are often interconnected. In fact, according to the National Network to End Domestic Violence, 1 in 4 homeless women in the United States are homeless because of domestic violence. This is because of the many effects domestic violence can have on a survivor’s life, including job loss, financial instability, and even physical injury, which can make it difficult for survivors to maintain safe and stable housing. 

In addition, survivors of domestic violence may be forced to leave their homes suddenly and without any resources, which can leave them with nowhere to go. They may also be hesitant to seek help from friends or family members, fearing that their abuser will locate them. 

How CAPSA Can Help 

At CAPSA, we understand that housing instability can be a significant barrier to survivors seeking safety and healing. That’s why we offer a range of services and resources to help survivors experiencing homelessness. Here are some of the ways CAPSA can help: 

  • Case Management: CAPSA employs caseworkers who specialize in helping survivors find independence through housing. Our caseworkers help survivors to create a personalized plan for healing and recovery. This may include connecting survivors with legal services, job training, and other resources to help them achieve long-term stability, including access to housing. 
  • Emergency Shelter: CAPSA provides emergency shelter for survivors of domestic violence and their children. Our shelter is a safe and confidential space where survivors can access 24/7 support, counseling, and other resources. CAPSA’s emergency shelter is critical in diverting homelessness due to domestic violence in our community. 
  • Transitional Housing: While CAPSA’s emergency shelter helps divert homelessness, eliminating homelessness in our community requires an integrated approach to empowering individuals and families to find and maintain safe and stable homes. Because of this, CAPSA has built and owns 21 single-family homes for transitional housing. Clients stay in these transitional housing homes for up to two years.  

Here to Help 

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing survivor-centered services that meet the unique needs of everyone who seeks our support. When you call CAPSA at 435-753-2500, you can expect a warm and welcoming response, information and support, advocacy and support, and confidentiality. We want survivors to know that they are not alone and that they have the power to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, please don’t hesitate to call CAPSA. 

Domestic Violence and Employee Productivity: Understanding the Impacts and Supporting Survivors

Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that affects millions of people every year. It not only has devastating physical and emotional consequences for survivors, but it can also have a significant impact on their work and productivity. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, domestic violence costs the U.S. economy $8.3 billion every year, with a significant portion of that cost being lost productivity due to absenteeism, presenteeism, and turnover. 

At CAPSA, we understand the devastating impact of domestic violence on survivors and the importance of supporting them in all areas of their lives, including their work. In this blog post, we will explore the impact of domestic violence on employee productivity and discuss ways that employers can support survivors in the workplace. 

The Impact of Domestic Violence on Employee Productivity 

Domestic violence can have a significant impact on the productivity of survivors. According to a study by the Society for Human Resource Management, nearly 60% of survivors of domestic violence reported that the abuse affected their work performance. The same study found that 21% of survivors had missed work due to domestic violence, and 74% reported that they had been harassed at work by their abuser. 

Additionally, domestic violence can lead to long-term health consequences for survivors, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These conditions can affect a survivor’s ability to concentrate, make decisions, and perform their job duties. 

Supporting Survivors in the Workplace 

Employers can play a crucial role in supporting survivors of domestic violence in the workplace. Here are some ways that employers can support survivors: 

  • Implement Domestic Violence Policies: Employers should have policies in place that address domestic violence in the workplace, including providing time off for survivors to seek medical or legal help and offering workplace accommodations to ensure the safety of survivors. 
  • Offer Employee Assistance Programs: Employee assistance programs (EAPs) can provide confidential counseling services to employees who are experiencing domestic violence. EAPs can also provide referrals to community resources and support services. 
  • Provide Training to Managers and Employees: Employers should provide training to managers and employees to help them recognize the signs of domestic violence and understand how to respond if a co-worker discloses abuse. 
  • Create a Safe and Supportive Work Environment: Employers should create a work environment that is safe and supportive for survivors. This can include providing a private space for survivors to make phone calls or take time off for appointments related to domestic violence. 

Domestic violence can have a significant impact on employee productivity, but employers can play a crucial role in supporting survivors in the workplace. By implementing policies and procedures that address domestic violence, offering employee assistance programs, providing training to managers and employees, and creating a safe and supportive work environment, employers can help survivors of domestic violence heal and thrive in all areas of their lives. 

Here to Help 

At CAPSA, we are committed to providing survivor-centered services that meet the unique needs of everyone who seeks our support. When you call CAPSA at 435-753-2500, you can expect a warm and welcoming response, information and support, advocacy and support, and confidentiality. We want survivors to know that they are not alone and that they have the power to make informed decisions about their safety and well-being. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, please don’t hesitate to call CAPSA. 

Why Domestic Violence is Everyone’s Business: Tips for Creating a Safe and Supportive Workplace

Domestic violence is not  a private matter. It affects not only the individuals who experience it, but also their families, friends, communities, and workplaces. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, one in four women and one in nine men experience severe intimate partner physical violence, intimate partner contact, sexual violence, and/or intimate partner stalking. Domestic violence can have serious consequences for the physical, mental, and emotional health of survivors, as well as their productivity, performance, and safety at work. 

As an employer, you have a responsibility and an opportunity to create a safe and supportive workplace for your employees who may be experiencing domestic violence. By doing so, you can help prevent further harm, reduce absenteeism and turnover, increase morale and loyalty, and enhance your reputation as a socially responsible organization. Here are some tips for creating a safe and supportive workplace for survivors of domestic violence: 

  • Educate yourself and your staff about domestic violence. CAPSA provides training on the signs, impacts, and resources for individuals impacted by domestic violence. This training can be provided to managers and employees on how to recognize and respond to domestic violence in the workplace. 
  • Display CAPSA signage in the office. 
  • Connect survivors with resources and support. Know your local resources and services that can help survivors of domestic violence. CAPSA is the local resource for Cache and Rich Counties and Preston, Weston, and Franklin, Idaho. Encourage survivors to seek help and support them in accessing the resources they need. 
  • Foster a culture of respect and trust. Create a positive work environment where employees feel valued, respected, and supported. Promote open communication, teamwork, diversity, and inclusion among your staff. Encourage employees to speak up if they witness or experience domestic violence or any other form of harassment or discrimination in the workplace. Respond promptly and appropriately to any complaints or concerns raised by employees. Demonstrate your leadership and commitment to preventing and addressing domestic violence in your workplace.
  • Make fighting Domestic Violence a cause of your business – employees find value in organizations that prioritize a cause.  

At CAPSA (Citizens Against Physical & Sexual Abuse), we believe that everyone deserves to live free from fear of abuse. We provide safe, caring, and confidential shelter, advocacy, and support for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault in Cache County, the Bear Lake area, and Southwest Idaho. We also provide prevention education programs for schools, businesses, organizations, and communities to raise awareness and reduce incidents of abuse. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault, please call CAPSA’s 24-hour Support Phone Line at (435) 753-2500 to speak with a trained advocate. We are here to help you. 

Together, we can make a difference.

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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.