Businesses invited to help tackle domestic abuse

York’s businesses are being encouraged to join an upcoming session helping employers contribute to the fight against domestic abuse.

The Domestic Abuse: Awareness for Businesses session will take place at the Priory Street Centre on Tuesday 4 February from 9:30-11:30 am. 

 The event is free to attend, with tickets available at the link below: https://app.tickettailor.com/events/cityofyorkcouncil1/1486642

The session, led by the council’s Domestic Abuse Engagement team, will help employers and public facing businesses recognise the signs of an abusive relationship and understand what they can do to support colleagues and customers who are experiencing this.

Attendees will hear from speakers representing key organisations supporting victim-survivors of domestic abuse and will gain valuable insights into domestic abuse, its effects on local businesses, and how employers can support those affected.

Light refreshments will be provided at the event.

Cllr Lucy Steels-Walshaw, Executive Member for Health, Wellbeing and Adult Social Care at City of York Council, said: 

“Whether as employers or public-facing spaces, businesses have a key role to play in promoting awareness and support available for victims and survivors of domestic abuse. 

“Going to work, or visiting a customer-facing business, might be one of the only opportunities where someone experiencing abuse can open up about what they’re going through.  

“It’s so important for colleagues and employers to be able to recognise the warning signs and to create a safe space at work where employees and customers alike can speak out about an abusive situation and access the support they need.

“Domestic abuse is everyone’s business and I urge members of York’s business community to join us for this important session and learn how they can support victim-survivors and create safer spaces for those affected."