Victims of Domestic Violence Time Off
As employers we should care about our staff and their safety. It’s great to make sure that you employees are safe while working in your facility. However, the employee does not live in your facility 24/7. Employees go home and sometimes homes are not the safe place that we all like to think they are for everyone. Safe Leave can be used for employees or assistance of a family members that is a victim of any act or threat of domestic violence, unwanted sexual contact, stalking or human trafficking.
83% of survivors have reported that domestic abuse has affected their work whether it was by taking time off, the rumors around the office, and even having to leave a job due to relocating. The United State loses about 8 million days of work every year according to the Center for Domestic Peace.
At no point should the employer require their employee to contact law enforcement as a condition for Safe Leave. If an employee is required to contact law enforcement, it could potentially put that employee in danger or endanger other family members.
Agencies should grant annual leave for all safe purposes, including time off for non-medical reasons such as: secure housing, attend court hearing and obtain legal assistance, enroll children in schools, etc. If an employee exhausts their safe leave, you may allow your staff use other leave options that qualify. Remind your staff that they do have the opportunity to use the company’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP). The EAP is a network of support programs such as a 24 hour hotline and shelters
Our Customer SAY:
We believe in ethics, values, drive determination and results and your organization has delivered beyond our expectations. We deliver on the promises that we set for our customers and Savio has never failed to do the same for us.
- Debra, HR Professional
