In case of suspected domestic violence/threats of violence

Be observant of signs that may indicate domestic violence, such as:

• repeated short-term absences
• stress, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, irritability
• pain (e.g., shoulders/neck)
• alcohol/drug problems
• difficulty rescheduling or changing work shifts
• difficulty participating in activities outside of work hours
• protective/controlling partner
• constantly checking the phone, frequent calls from home
• always being dropped off and picked up from work
• lack of social interaction with family and friends
• taking a lot of responsibility for home and partner/children

How to approach the subject as a manager:

• Show that you care about the employee and make it clear that the conversation is out of concern.
• Tell the employee that they are important to the workplace and that you need them at work.
• Be clear that you can have a confidential conversation.
• Say, for example, “I have noticed the following and wonder if you are experiencing violence in your relationship?” and “I want to support you, help is available.”

Remember that as a manager, you can decide that the employee should not work remotely if it poses a risk to the employee’s health.

Phone numbers:

• Women’s Helpline (open 24/7): 020-50 50 50
• Men’s Support Line (open daily 7-21): 020-80 80 80

You can also contact these services as a manager, to prepare yourself for a conversation or to gather information on where to refer someone.

If the employee is being subjected to violence, it is important that they seek medical care and have their injuries documented. As a manager, you can support them and offer to accompany them.