The letter outlines how employers need to take practical steps to raise awareness of those who are suffering from domestic abuse and procedures should be in place to enable warning signs to be noticed, and to enable workers to access the support they need.
The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) has published a report about this and ACAS has updated its working from home during the coronavirus pandemic guidance to include a section on domestic violence and abuse.
The Government report considers the measures employers can take to support the victims of domestic abuse. The report considered the following:
ACAS has included a section in their guidance stating that employers have a legal duty of care to their employees and should look out for any signs of domestic abuse and respond appropriately. Employers should support employees who are experiencing domestic abuse, and keep a record of any reports made by employees regarding domestic abuse and what action was taken.
In light of the Government report and updated ACAS guidance, employers are advised to review their home working polices to ensure that there are appropriate measures in place to support victims of domestic abuse. Employers should also consider developing specific domestic abuse policies. The report recommends appointing Domestic Abuse Workplace Champions, who are trained to spot the potential signs of domestic abuse and to act as a confidante and signposting support services where appropriate.
Our employment lawyers can assist with reviewing or developing your policies in light of the recent guidance.