Domestic abuse remains a serious issue in the UK, affecting millions of people every year. Providing effective domestic abuse training is essential for organisations of all sizes to ensure staff are aware of the signs, know how to respond appropriately, and understand the legal responsibilities involved.
The Current Landscape
Recent statistics show that over 2.1 million adults in England and Wales experience domestic abuse annually, though many cases go unreported. Employment tribunals involving domestic abuse claims have risen, highlighting the importance of workplaces providing adequate support.
Failing to support staff experiencing domestic abuse can amount to discrimination under the Equality Act 2010, particularly relating to sex, age, or disability. High-profile cases have demonstrated significant financial and reputational consequences for organisations that do not take action.
What is Domestic Abuse and Violence?
“Domestic Abuse can be defined as any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are, or have been, intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality. The abuse can encompass, but is not limited to psychological, physical, sexual, financial or emotional factors”.
Domestic violence can happen against anyone, and anybody can be an abuser. It involves one person in a relationship having power and control over the other person.
Although historically women were seen as the victim and men as a perpetrator, 25% of reported domestic abuse involves crime against a male. Men and women can both be the victim or perpetrator.
There are a number of potential risk factors that have been identified which may increase the risk of incidents of domestic abuse and violence. These include, but are not limited to:
- Physical learning difficulties – a victim may find it harder to disclose what has happened or may be reliant on the perpetrator for personal care or mobility.
- Socio-economic status
- Relationship status
- Gender
- Homelessness
- Household structure
- Sexual orientation
- Mental health
Although consideration should be given to these factors, there is no clear cut way to define who may or may not experience domestic abuse and violence, and therefore, anyone reporting or showing the signs of experiencing domestic abuse and violence must be given appropriate support and resources.
Domestic Abuse and Violence can take place anywhere, at home or beyond and can have many components, not always physical and can include abuse and violent harassment by phone, over the internet or through social networking sites. It can have many different guises with differing levels of severity including:
- Stalking and harassment
- Online and digital abuse
- Teenage relationship abuse
- Child to parent abuse
- ‘Honour’ based violence
- Financial abuse
- Physical abuse
- Verbal abuse
- Coercion and control
All of these aspects are covered in more detail in our Domestic Abuse and Violence online training course.
It’s important to remember that domestic abuse and violence are never the fault of the victim.
Legislation and Employer Responsibilities
The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 reinforced workplace responsibilities, ensuring that employers recognise domestic abuse as a legitimate workplace concern. Upcoming legislation, such as provisions within the Employment Rights Bill, will further emphasise equality, requiring organisations to demonstrate policies and support measures for affected staff.
Even before legal mandates, tribunals expect employers to make reasonable adjustments for staff experiencing domestic abuse, which can include flexible working arrangements, wellbeing support, and clear reporting procedures.
Taking Action
Effective domestic abuse training is becoming a priority for all organisations. By educating staff and embedding support policies, organisations can:
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Protect employees and vulnerable adults
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Reduce legal and reputational risk
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Promote a culture of empathy, safety, and inclusion
Online Domestic Abuse Training for All Workplaces
Organisations of all sizes, from corporate offices to schools, faith groups, and community organisations, can benefit from comprehensive online domestic abuse training. This course helps workplaces stay prepared, compliant, and supportive.
Practical Guidance for Managers and HR Teams
Many managers and HR teams need clear guidance on recognising the signs of domestic abuse, supporting staff, and knowing what steps to take if concerns arise. Developed with experts, this course gives you the knowledge and confidence to act effectively.
Accessible and Informative for Everyone
The 45-minute course is valuable for employers, volunteers, and employees alike. It raises awareness, provides practical guidance, and directs learners to resources and support, all in a sensitive, educational format.
For more information about how our training courses can support the health and wellbeing of your team, please feel free to get in touch on 01332 208500 or contact us here.
We will happily offer a free trial of our Domestic Abuse and Violence Awareness Training course to all those who may find it of use to their organisation.