Domestic Abuse Policy (Workforce)

Introduction

Ashford & St. Peter’s Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (the Trust) is committed to supporting employees who are experiencing domestic abuse and providing guidance for employees and management to address the occurrence of domestic abuse and its effects on the workplace. The Trust can support staff through a number of mechanisms, including emotional support and making reasonable adjustments to working patterns, working environments and offering practical support to support safety within the workplace.

The Government define domestic abuse as:

Any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive or 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.

Domestic Abuse can be carried out by a partner or ex-partner (married, co-habiting or single sex relationship), by a family member, or by another person living in the same household. This includes issues such as stalking and other persistent harassment, honour based violence and forced marriage and may include instances where the victim may have a caring responsibility for the abuser (i.e. abuse targeted at their carer).

Scope

This policy is applicable to all staff (including employees, bank workers, contractors and volunteers) and outlines the Trust’s commitment to supporting staff who identify themselves as having been exposed to domestic abuse either directly or indirectly.

This policy applies to all staff irrespective of their sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression, race or ethnic background, religion, belief, marital status, disability, age or other legally protected characteristics and irrelevant factors.

Policy Details