Policy overview
We have a zero-tolerance approach to violence or abuse towards our employees, including domestic abuse. We ensure the provision of non-judgemental support for those who suffer it. We commit to supporting:
- employee health
- wellbeing
- safety at work
We recognise that any employee may be affected by domestic abuse as:
- a survivor of domestic abuse
- an individual living with domestic abuse
- impacted upon by domestic abuse
- a perpetrator of domestic abuse
Our policy covers how we will support:
- individuals experiencing or impacted by domestic abuse
- where there are concerns that an employee is abusing others
- employees seeking help if affected by domestic abuse
We recognise that domestic abuse is an equalities issue. We will not discriminate against anyone subjected to domestic abuse in terms of employment or future development.
Principles
We strongly encourage individuals suffering abuse to disclose this for the safety of themselves and others in the workplace. We will not force them to share this information if they do not want to or are unable to.
We ensure for employees who disclose any experience of abuse that the information they provide is confidential. We will not ordinarily share this with other members of staff without their permission. Exceptions to this may occur when:
- there are safeguarding concerns about children or vulnerable adults
- we need to act to protect the safety of any employee
We will treat any allegation, disclosure or conviction of a domestic abuse-related offence on a case-by-case basis. We aim to reduce risk and support change.
We view the use of violence and abusive behaviour by employees, wherever this occurs, as a breach of our code of conduct. We may consider the matter under our disciplinary policy. This includes if an individual becomes the subject of a police investigation, or receives a caution or conviction.
We commit to ensuring that:
- we treat allegations fairly and in a way that supports the person who is the subject of the allegation or disclosure
- employees will receive guidance and support
- we will maintain confidentiality and restrict information to only those who need to know
- we will conduct any investigation thoroughly and promptly
