A free domestic abuse (DA) in the workplace programme, which has so far trained over 400 people to recognise the signs of DA, and signpost those who might want help to change unhealthy behaviour in their relationships, has achieved CPD Accreditation.
New Era’s Workplace Champion programme has been delivered since 1 October 2018, in conjunction with Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, and is available to local businesses and partner organisations across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent.
Staffordshire Commissioner for Police, Fire & Rescue and Crime Ben Adams said: “Supporting domestic abuse victims in the workplace is an investment in the health and wellbeing of employees, and I’m pleased to see this important training achieve CPD Accreditation.
“Through New Era’s DA in the Workplace Champion programme, employers can take action so that staff who may be experiencing domestic abuse, or who want help to change their own behaviours, feel supported in the workplace.”
The training is available as a one day face-to-face or two half-day online option, and is designed to:
- Raise awareness of DA in the workplace across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent
- Ensure those affected by DA can be signposted to free specialist support
- Support businesses, by providing free CPD Accredited DA Champion training
- Help business productivity by reducing staff absence due to DA-related issues
Following the training, participants will understand:
- The prevalence of DA and the dynamics of an abusive relationship
- The key elements of the Domestic Abuse Act 2021
- The challenges that non-abusive partners come across when deciding to stay or leave an abusive relationship
- The range of support options available to victims, children and young people, and perpetrators of abuse
- The key responsibilities of the Workplace Champion role and the limitations involved
The programme also enables businesses to review and implement a DA Policy in the workplace and adopt the DA Pledge, making a commitment to support all those affected by DA within their workplaces. Almost 160 companies now support the programme, with 133 adopting the Pledge and 139 having a DA Policy.
Melina Hancox, Victim Support Area Manager at New Era, said: “New Era are pleased to have achieved CPD Accreditation for the Domestic Abuse in the Workplace Champions Programme and feel that this helps to recognise the commitment of those looking to undertake the role. With only 5% of employers having introduced a specific policy or guideline on the issue, we are committed to raising awareness that Domestic Abuse has a major impact on the workplace and it is important for employers to recognise this and to put measures in place to help employees affected. This training equips participants with the knowledge and resources to support and signpost colleagues to the most appropriate support available if and when required.”
Tom Nadin, Head of Projects and Business Services at the Chambers of Commerce, added: “Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce are delighted that the Domestic Abuse in the Workplace programme has achieved CPD Accreditation. With over 400 individuals already trained, this initiative not only raises awareness of domestic abuse and its impact, but also equips businesses and employees with the skills to create supportive environments. It’s a testament to businesses’ commitment to employee wellbeing and a crucial step in addressing this important issue. We look forward to continuing to support this programme to go from strength to strength.”
If you are interested in New Era’s Domestic Abuse in the Workplace Champions training programme, call 01782 202222 or email info@staffordshirechambers.co.uk. Ongoing support will be given to Champions through regular refresher training and a peer-support Champions and a Peer support facility via Linked-in.
For enquiries about New Era victim services, call 0300 303 3778 (24 hours). For enquiries about New Era perpetrator services, call 0300 373 5772 (Monday to Friday, normal office hours) or access details on the New Era website.
