Representing all forms of domestic abuse

29 October 2020

October is Domestic Violence Awareness month.  You may have noticed that even though, here in the UK and as an organisation, we use the phrase ‘domestic abuse’ rather than ‘domestic violence’, as Domestic Violence Awareness Month is an international campaign, we’ve used hashtags and language across our channels that reflect that international outlook.

Contemplating this has given us the chance to think about why we usually choose to use the language we do.  And it's because it's incredibly important that we talk about the effect of domestic abuse in an inclusive way.

Of course, the majority of those affected by domestic abuse are women.   And the majority of perpetrators are men.  But that's not always the case.  Men can be victims of domestic violence and women can be perpetrators - and it can happen in heterosexual or same-sex relationships.  There is no ‘typical’ victim of domestic abuse - and if we perpetuate stereotypes around domestic abuse, we risk ignoring victims, or inadvertently telling them that their experiences don’t matter or aren't valid.

Our use of ‘domestic abuse’ rather than ‘domestic violence’ also emphasises that this kind of abuse isn’t just about black eyes or bruises.  It can take physical form, but it can also be emotional, psychological, financial or sexual abuse.  Examples could include threats and manipulation, controlling access to money or tracking phones or other devices with spyware.

By taking an inclusive approach to tackling domestic abuse, we are able to help more people.  And that's why we at the EIDA think it's so important that all businesses and employers take responsibility for spreading awareness amongst all their employees, and ensuring that everyone in the organisation is aware of what support is available.  Anyone could be a victim of domestic abuse, regardless of their age, sex, background or sexual orientation.  Support needs to be universally available.

So this October, if you haven’t already, why not take the first step to support your workforce and join the Employers’ Initiative on Domestic Abuse?  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. 

And 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.

At the Employers’ Initiative, 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.

To join and/or sign up as a beacon, please contact our Membership Development Executive Kelly Wilde via support@eida.org.uk.