Statistics show that family violence spikes in December and January. With many of us now heading back to work after a summer break, it's important to remember that for many victims, the workplace is one of the only safe places they can go to for support.
The damaging and pervasive effects of family violence extends well beyond the home. Many victims and perpetrators will invariably bring their trauma with them to work and are more likely to be disengaged, less productive and to suffer workplace accidents.
This White Ribbon day the Human Rights Commission, alongside The Warehouse Group, ANZ Bank, Countdown Supermarkets, the University of Auckland and Shine, is encouraging businesses and workplaces to address one of New Zealand’s biggest human right issues by adopting a family violence policy.
The Commission has been speaking to several organisations about why implementing a family violence policy can help those in need of support.
It's time our workplaces step up to help deal with family violence
Many victims and perpetrators of family violence will invariably bring their trauma with them to work and are more likely to be disengaged, less productive and to suffer workplace accidents.