Family Violence – It’s Not OK, asking for help is from The Warehouse Group

Women’s Refuge warmly welcomes today’s announcement and congratulates The Warehouse Group for being the largest New Zealand employer so far to develop comprehensive human resources policy around domestic and family violence.

“To our knowledge there are only smaller operators and non-government agencies who have developed any kind of policy around domestic violence. This initiative from The Warehouse Group will not only enhance their reputation as a great employer but, critically, it also shows national leadership in acknowledging that domestic violence is a significant issue in New Zealand,” says Chief Executive of Women’s Refuge Dr Ang Jury.

An Economic Impact report released from the Glen Inquiry in 2014, authored by Suzanne Snively estimated the cost of dealing with child abuse and domestic violence at around $7 billion annually. The report also calculated that $1 billion is lost each year in workplace productivity because of abuse and violence such as lost wages and days off work.

“Women experiencing domestic violence often find holding down work very difficult. They may experience violence while they are at work (through stalking) or need to take time off to deal with their injuries, or those of their family members. However, having stable employment is a critical factor in their ability to eventually leave their violent relationship.

“By the Warehouse acknowledging that domestic and family violence is unacceptable and putting in measures to protect and support their employees, it is making a significant difference to those whose lives are shattered by violence.”

Dr Jury says The Warehouse joins companies in Australia like Telstra, Virgin Australia, National Australia Bank and some Australian Universities who have developed domestic and family violence workplace initiatives. “It is fantastic that The Warehouse Group is demonstrating such a remarkable commitment to the well being and safety of its staff. Domestic violence is a human rights issues and I challenge other companies to come on board with similar support networks for staff impacted by violence as part of New Zealand making a collective stand against domestic violence.”

ENDS

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