What to include in a workplace policy on domestic and sexual abuse
A checklist of what to include in your workplace policy on domestic and sexual abuse and an example policy.
Developing a workplace policy on domestic and sexual abuse has a number of business benefits and can help support employees who are at risk.
What should a domestic and sexual abuse policy include?
The Department of Health has developed guidance for employers on developing a workplace policy on domestic and sexual violence.
You can also use this checklist to ensure your policy covers the key areas:
- policy statement outlining a commitment to a zero tolerance approach to domestic and sexual violence and abuse
- definition of 'domestic violence and abuse' and 'sexual violence and abuse' with facts and figures
- reporting procedures including roles, responsibilities and contact details of human resources, line managers, employees and trade union representatives
- practical measures to support employees, for example, diverting phone calls or alerting reception and security staff
- list of support services
- commitment to prioritise confidentiality
- communication plan, for example, to publish the policy on the staff newsletter or handbook so that all staff can be made aware of it
- information on staff training on the implications of domestic and sexual violence and abuse in the workplace and what the policy offers
- process for monitoring and reviewing the policy regularly
Example policy
The Belfast Area Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse Partnership has produced an example policy.
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