NZ workplaces' evolving response to domestic violence

Holly Carrington looks at what’s on offer to support employers’ response to the Domestic Violence–Victims Protection Act 2018.

Employers’ response to the Domestic Violence–Victims Protection Act – in force from 1 April this year – has been heartening to those of us who’ve worked in the domestic violence field for many years. So many employers of all sizes are going above and beyond the minimum required for legal compliance, to prepare their workplaces to respond safely and appropriately to employee disclosures.

Domestic violence specialist charity Shine established a DVFREE workplace programme in 2001 to support employers with policy and training. The primary goal is to create workplaces that are safe and supportive for employees who experience domestic violence. For many years it was an uphill battle to convince employers that domestic violence was a workplace issue that needed their investment of time and resources.

In recent years, the employment sector and HR professionals have turned a corner. There is now a far greater understanding of the prevalence and seriousness of domestic violence in New Zealand and the impact on the workplace in terms of health, safety, wellbeing and productivity.

There is also a greater understanding that an Employment Assistance Programme (EAP) is not a onesize-fits-all solution to employees’ personal problems, and that domestic violence requires a workplace response that focuses on safety, and that refers to community specialists in the first instance, rather than EAP.

The result has been a massive surge in demand for DVFREE services – especially training for first responders and managers – as well as interest in the DVFREE Tick accreditation. The DVFREE Team is expanding to meet this demand. The team delivers inhouse training and policy consultation for employers throughout New Zealand. It also now regularly provides training for first responders, and workshops on creating effective policy and procedures, which individuals can register to attend in Auckland (Shine’s Kingsland venue), Wellington (hosted by Business NZ) and now Christchurch (hosted by Westpac).

Many employers are raising staff awareness using the free online workplace learning module: www.2shine.org.nz/workplacelearning-module

Employers with DVFREE Tick accreditation are steadily increasing, including Westpac, Stuff, IAG, the Ministry of Justice and the Human Rights Commission, with many more on the way.

If you are creating, or looking to improve the effectiveness of, your staff domestic violence programme, you can get free, specific and practical advice from the DVFREE Guidelines for Policy and Procedures: www.dvfree.org.nz/dvfreeguidelines-for-policy-procedures

Find out more at www.dvfree.org.nz, dvfree@2shine.org.nz or 09-815-4592.