Logistics business Wincanton has trained 10 members of staff at its Stafford site to be Domestic Abuse Champions under a new scheme backed by Staffordshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC).
The workplace programme is part of ongoing efforts by PCC Matthew Ellis to offer better service and support for victims of domestic abuse.The PCC is funding specialist training, delivered by Staffordshire Women’s Aid, for a nominated individual from each business that joins the programme.The programme is being led for Matthew Ellis by Deputy PCC Sue Arnold who launched the initiative in January by speaking first-hand with over 60 businesses.
Organisations who sign-up to the programme – at no cost to themselves – commit to taking steps to support staff in abusive relationships and make sure victims are aware that help is available. Managers will be encouraged to spot tell-tale signs of abuse and give practical and confidential guidance to staff.
Recorded incidents for domestic abuse in Staffordshire show that over 19,000 cases were reported between 1 July 2014 and 30 June 2015. Such crime is estimated to cost the economy £23 billion a year – including £1.7 billion for employers alone.
Mrs Arnold said: “Domestic abuse has a devastating impact on victims and can affect the whole of their lives – including their work. Victims are likely to suffer in silence for a long time before talking to anyone about what they are going through.
“However, managers and colleagues at work may notice changes in their behaviour – such as problems with concentration, anxiety, dips in work quality, regularly arriving late or leaving early – which could signal abuse at home.
“By signing up, businesses are going public with their commitment to tackling domestic abuse and show a clear commitment to supporting staff who are victims in a sensitive way.”
Staffordshire Women’s Aid is an award-winning charity which has been supporting victims of domestic and sexual violence in Staffordshire since 1976. Through specialist support, the organisation empowers victims to change their lives and plan for safer, healthier and independent futures.
Nikki Kelham, Wincanton HR Manager, said: “We know that domestic violence is a real concern across the UK, affecting one in every four women and one in every six men. Wincanton’s approach to colleague wellbeing is designed to provide a well-rounded education on both work and non-work related matters, including health and welfare, promoting gender equality and health and safety, which is why we are proud to be the first company in the area supporting this great initiative.”
To find out more or to sign up to the policy visit www.staffordshire-pcc.gov.uk/domestic-abuse/
