24-Hour Helpline
(920) 729-5727
Christine Ann Domestic Abuse Services
P.O. Box 99
Neenah, WI 54957-0099
Phone: (920) 235-5998
Fax: (920) 729-0690
News Release: Domestic Violence Impacts the Workplace
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Menasha, WI, October 15, 2007 -- Many people think of domestic violence as a victim being isolated behind the closed doors of their home. In fact, the phrase domestic violence suggests that the abuse is specific to the home. While abuse is certainly present in many homes, no longer is it limited to only that location. The workplace has become another avenue for abusers to exert control over their victims.
Workplace violence refers to those relationships in which the abuser utilizes their victim's place of employment to gain power and control. For example, many abusive individuals are threatened by their partner's employment for a variety of reasons, but often times it is because of what it represents - independence, support and self-sufficiency. The perception of "independence" and "support" can be threatening to the abuser's sense of control; hence, they make the workplace a target for their controlling actions. For instance, an abuser may attempt to sabotage their partner's ability to work by different means, including disabling the car so their partner is late or cannot attend work. They may also call their partner's workplace repeatedly to threaten and harass. Additionally, abusers may wait outside their partner's workplace, stalking them or engaging in face-to-face confrontations. Often times, victims believe that their only recourse is to quit their job, which is exactly what many abusers are seeking in order to gain back their control.
Unfortunately, these scenarios are far too common in workplaces.
To help educate employees and employers on domestic violence in the workplace, Christine Ann Domestic Abuse Services is now offering a Domestic Violence and the Workplace training program, which is an interactive, power-point based model that explores issues of abuse and how it has infiltrated the workplace. The presentation offers the basics about an abusive relationship, as well as suggestions for how to help a co-worker or employee who may need support. The agency is also able to customize the training to meet specific needs of businesses, and help put policies in place to protect all victims of abuse in the workplace.
Christine Ann Domestic Abuse Services' mission is to prevent domestic abuse and violence and to provide intervention and safety to all individuals affected by domestic violence. In addition to emergency shelter, the agency provides comprehensive programs and services in Winnebago and Green Lake Counties.
Contact:
Chad Weston-Gardner
Christine Ann Domestic Abuse Services
(920) 729-5727
www.christineann.net
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