Domestic violence and partner abuse

Domestic abuse is also a workplace issue with implications for sickness absence. Campaign group Stonewall points out that there is a significant amount of research that discusses domestic violence between men and women, and significant recognition that domestic violence occurs in a context in which a man is violent towards a woman. However, partner abuse is as common and as severe among same sex couples as among heterosexual couples.

The consequences for the individual suffering domestic abuse can include periods of absence or sickness, with particular impact on mental health. In many cases, individuals will feel extremely isolated and in need of support, but reluctant to discuss the problem. Such reluctance will be all the greater for those in a same-sex relationship if the workplace is not LGBT-friendly.

Union representatives must not attempt the skilled work of counselling those facing abuse. They may be able to assist by providing information on support services and helplines, and negotiating with the employer to ensure that if a case is brought to their attention, it will be handled with absolute confidentiality and that all necessary steps will be taken to protect the person from further danger.