A Wake-up Call to Businesses: Domestic Violence

A Wake-up Call to Businesses: Domestic Violence
Doesn't Stay At Home When an Employee Goes to Work

SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 31 /PRNewswire/ -
You may not know it, but a silent epidemic could be affecting your workforce.

As an employer or supervisor, these facts from Blue Shield Against Violence should alarm you: Thirty-one percent of American women report being physically or sexually abused by a husband or boyfriend at some point in their lives. Most victims don't tell anyone about it, which makes it likely that the percentage is even higher. In fact, violence between intimate partners is so prevalent that -- although you might not recognize it -- members of your workforce may be struggling with domestic violence.

What you may find even more startling is the fact that domestic violence doesn't stay at home when an employee goes to work.

"The effects of domestic violence spill-over into the workplace," says Marianne Balin, who coordinates Blue Shield Against Violence, Blue Shield of California's workplace awareness program. "It affects productivity, creativity, attendance and morale. And it affects your bottom line."

A safe, supportive work environment will protect both the health of your employees and your business. Cutting edge companies like Blue Shield of California, Bell Atlantic Mobile and others have already implemented domestic violence policies and practices that are making a tremendous difference to their employees.

"We began to educate our employees and supervisors about domestic violence four years ago and were surprised at how many employees came forward to ask for help or tell their stories," says Balin. "By creating an environment in which employees feel safe and supported, we are able to manage cases instead of crises."

There are four steps every company can take:

1. Educate -- increase awareness by training employees and managers about domestic violence.

2. Flex -- ensure human resource policies allow flexible opportunities that support abused employees. For example, support the use of family medical leave so victims can access social and legal services that will make them safe.

3. Refer -- provide on-site information about community services, so victims have a place to turn.

4. Secure -- have an organized response to direct threats of domestic violence in the workplace.

Domestic violence is a workplace issue, but too many companies have yet to address it. The business community has a vital role to play in reducing the impact of domestic violence. For resources in your community, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline, (800) 799-SAFE. To learn more about Blue Shield Against Violence, please call (415) 229-5861.

SOURCE Blue Shield of California