On September 3rd 2020, crisis support charity, Hestia, launched their new confidential advice line for employers looking to support employees affected by domestic violence. The new helpline is part of Hestia’s Everyone’s Businessproject that also includes a “Business Toolkit” available for download.
1/4 women and 1/6 men will experience domestic violence at some point in their lifetime and, with so much of us spending so much time at work, it’s important that employers learn to recognise the signs of domestic violence and respond effectively.
The new helpline, which employers can call for advice on 0203 8793695 between 10am-3pm weekdays, aims to support businesses and help them react appropriately to disclosures of domestic violence. Everyone’s business will also provide resources that businesses can sign post employees to for more support.
2020 has seen a global increase in domestic violence, due to Covid-19 restrictions leaving many victims of abuse trapped at home with their abusers. The UN has labelled the 20% increase in domestic violence cases a “shadow pandemic” and employers have a unique role to play in protecting the lives of vulnerable people.
Susan Bright, Global Managing Partner for Diversity & Inclusion and Responsible Business at Hogan Lovells, said “Domestic abuse can have devastating consequences, and leave people faced with impossible life choices. Employers have an important role to play in supporting their employees, particularly this year and during the pandemic. We welcome the launch of the new advice line and hope that it will ease some of the pressure on those who are vulnerable.”
For more information about Hestia and contact details, visit https://www.hestia.org/pages/category/everyones-business
If you are currently experiencing domestic violence you can call the National Domestic Helpline on 0808 200 247. Always call 999 in an emergency.
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