Workshop: Responding to Family Violence in the Workplace

Learn how to listen and respond appropriately to staff and colleagues experiencing family violence.

Everyone has the right to feel safe and free from abuse and violence in their relationships. Family violence is not only about physical assault but refers to an array of power and control which may include direct or indirect threats, sexual assault, emotional and psychological torment, economic control, property damage, social isolation and behaviour which causes a person to live in fear.

As well as affecting individuals and families, family violence can also impact workplaces in a variety of ways. It is likely that some staff will have experienced this issue directly or indirectly and employees may need time off work to locate and access support services. Additionally, there is the potential for parties involved in conflict to present at the other person’s workplace demanding to see them. Workplaces can also be used as public drop-off points for children.

This interactive training is designed specifically for workplaces, to assist managers and staff to feel confident in raising and responding to family violence concerns with their staff.

Participants will gain knowledge about family violence and have an opportunity to explore and practice skills in the difficult task of responding to these situations, from both a personal and an organisational perspective.

Outcomes

Participants will learn about:

• family violence in Australia
• types of family violence
• the impact of family violence in the workplace
• common myths about family violence
• the indicators of family violence
• how to ask initial questions about family violence
• how to respond appropriately to family violence disclosure
• how to make a referral to family violence services
• relevant legislation
• self-care.

Ideal for

Staff in a range of business units within organisations that may need to respond to, and assist people experiencing, family violence at home.

About the presenter

Jodie Patten is the Program Leader Training Development at Relationships Australia Victoria. She has developed and delivered training in a variety of settings including for businesses, community organisations and the health and education sectors. Jodie has a background in psychology, community development, stakeholder engagement, stakeholder management and health promotion.