Supervisors and coworkers play a key role in extending support and help to survivors. Their role became even more critical when a national crisis created barriers to the protective environment of the workplace.
After the pandemic, the nature of work has changed dramatically, and many employees are still working remotely. As workplaces adjust to this new reality of remote supervisory interactions, the following tips may help supervisors and coworkers recognize when a colleague may be experiencing violence at home, respond in a manner that centers the survivor’s physical and emotional safety needs, and refer them to appropriate internal and external resources.
Remember, there is no one-size-fits all approach to safely supporting survivors; many of the typical strategies and avenues to seek safety or provide support may no longer be viable.
It is important to recognize that this is likely the first-time survivors have had to navigate complex situations because of the abuse by a partner; they are the experts on what they need to be safe, they are resilient, they are resourceful, they are survivors.
As allies, there are numerous ways we in the workplace and as colleagues can continue to support survivors.