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.