Domestic Violence Awareness Month
16 October 2020
Lorraine O’Brien
|
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, an international campaign which began in the United States in 1981. Here at the Employers’ Initiative on Domestic Abuse, we’ll be marking the month in various ways, and working with our partners and members to raise awareness and highlight best practice. Since I took up my role as CEO earlier this year, I’ve seen so many fantastic examples of our members going above and beyond to support their staff, and I’m determined to showcase this work and use it to inspire other businesses. Of course, here in the UK we use the phrase ‘domestic abuse’, rather than ‘domestic violence’ to emphasise that this kind of abuse isn’t just about black eyes or bruises - it can be physical, emotional, psychological, financial or sexual abuse. However, as Domestic Violence Awareness Month is an international campaign, as we participate, we will use hashtags and language across our channels that reflect that international outlook.
|
 |
Sadly, we know from our experience of lockdown earlier this year that periods of working from home can coincide with an increase of incidents of domestic abuse, as the workplace is often the only safe space for those at risk. These periods can also be difficult for survivors of abuse, who may feel isolated or anxious. With various parts of the UK currently affected by local lockdowns and a winter of uncertainty approaching, we’re calling on businesses to take practical steps to support their employees and make a difference.
Firstly, if your business or organisation isn’t already a member, then why not join the Employers’ Initiative on Domestic Abuse today? Membership is free, and gives businesses access to a wealth of advice, information and best practice that will help them to support employees affected by and at risk of domestic abuse.
Secondly, take advantage of some of the incredible resources that are available free of charge. The Bright Sky mobile app provides support and information to anyone who may be experiencing domestic abuse or is concerned about someone they know. It's available in English, Urdu, Punjabi, Polish and Welsh, and free to download from the App Store or Google Play. You can also signpost employees to the National Domestic Abuse Helpline which is available 24-hours a day, for free and in confidence on 0808 2000 247.
And finally, if you want to go the extra mile, why not sign up as one of our pioneering EIDA Beacon members? Our new Beacon membership gives organisations the opportunity to step up and lead in terms of shining a light on the pernicious effects of domestic abuse as well as tackling it through the workplace. If you would like to get involved in our Beacon scheme, please contact either ceo@eida.org.uk or support@eida.org.uk for more information.
At the EIDA, we know that domestic abuse is all our business. This Domestic Violence Awareness Month, let's work together as we seek to eradicate this scourge once and for all.