Abusive relationships can be emotionally destructive for the victim. It can tear down a person’s confidence and sense of self-worth. As a business owner, you have the opportunity to support your employee should they open up to you about their situation.
It might be daunting, and you may feel that you don’t know what to do. We take you through some information to help you understand how you can be of assistance.
What is Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence is often thought to be only physical abuse that results in an injury; however, according to the experts at flcrimedefense.com, the term has a much broader meaning.
It includes one or a combination of the following:
- Assault
- Battery
- Sexual assault or battery
- Stalking
- Kidnapping
- False imprisonment
It also includes any criminal offense that results in the physical injury or death of one household or family member at the hands of another.
https://pixabay.com/photos/violence-against-women-domestic-4209778/
Compassionate Leave
Some victims need time off to recover or receive therapy. A law prescribes that abuse survivors are entitled to a protected leave of absence in certain states. In Ontario, employees can take up to ten consecutive days.
Depending on the severity of the situation, this can increase to fifteen weeks in a calendar year. The circumstance for increased days will depend on whether the employee or their child has been threatened or experienced domestic violence or sexual abuse.
Only the first five days are paid, and the rest is unpaid leave. It differs between provinces, and you’ll need to check what you have to adhere to as an employer.
Workplace Support Structure
A few things can be done in an office environment that can help victims of domestic abuse. Ensure that the area is safe, and your employee is aware of measures that are in place. Restrict access to the office and if the bathroom is shared with other companies, use a key or door passcode to allow only authorized personnel.
Keep the individual’s personal contact details off the company website and don’t divulge the information to anyone that calls in. It includes a cell phone number or email address. Keep in mind that the perpetrator may stalk them, so avoid listing any company events on social media. Also, assist the employee with seeking legal help s/he requires the most. A legal hand will help the sufferer overcome the trauma while seeking all s/he deserves. you can go here and read how to proceed for the same.
Divulging this information for the public to see makes it easy for the abuser to arrive at the same location if they wanted to get to the victim.
Final Thoughts
Victims of domestic violence often feel vulnerable and helpless. As an employer, you have the responsibility to keep them safe when they are at work. The individual might need to take some time off to recover or receive counseling, and in many states, it’s considered special leave.
You can implement strict access control at the office to ensure no unauthorized personnel gets into the building. It’s not easy for victims to recover, but just by being compassionate and caring, you’ll be helping them get through this difficult time.
