MINI SERIES (Episode 9): How Workplaces Can Support Employees Affected by Family and Domestic Violence with Laurie Arrowsmith

ADHD Mums

Family and domestic violence doesn't stop at home - it has a significant impact on workplaces too. That’s why I’m so grateful to have Laurie Arrowsmith from White Ribbon Australia back on the podcast. Laurie shares practical insights on how workplaces can foster safety, support, and equality for all employees.

As a Senior Workplace Programme Specialist, Laurie has spent over a decade working with both survivors and perpetrators, creating programmes that drive meaningful change.

Key Takeaways:

• The Workplace as a Safe Space: For many, work offers respite from domestic challenges. Learn how supportive policies can protect and empower employees.
• Economic and Cultural Impact: Domestic violence costs businesses billions annually. Discover strategies to minimise absenteeism and support wellbeing.
• Empowering Action: Embedding gender equality and providing training ensures workplaces are part of the solution.
• Supportive Policies: Understand the importance of family violence leave and how discreet workplace resources can make a difference.

Workplaces have a unique opportunity to champion safety, equality, and empowerment. Through proactive policies and leadership, they can make a lasting difference.

TRIGGER WARNING: This podcast series discusses topics that may be distressing to some listeners, including child abuse, physical and sexual abuse, and emotional trauma. If you or someone you know is affected by these issues, please prioritise your well-being and consider listening to a different episode or proceed with caution. If you feel overwhelmed at any point, it's okay to take a break or seek support.

Let’s be real - we can’t change or cover everything in one podcast series. But what we can do is start the conversation. If this episode helps even one person recognise the signs of abuse or points them toward safety, it’s worth it. It’s not about perfection, it’s about offering hope and shedding light on what’s often kept in the dark.

Flinders University Study: Download PDF

Support and Help Lines

If you or someone you know is in an abusive situation, reaching out to professionals can be life-changing. I don't want to create resources on a website with no 'quick exit' function. A quick exit function on domestic violence (DV) websites is designed to protect individuals who may be in immediate danger while seeking help or information online. Many victims of DV are closely monitored by their abusers, including their online activities. The quick exit button allows users to leave the website instantly and redirects them to a neutral site, like a search engine, with one click.

- 1800RESPECT: A national sexual assault, domestic, and family violence counselling service. Confidential and available 24/7. Call: 1800 737 732. Visit the Website

- Relationships Australia: Offers counselling, mediation, and support services. Call: 1300 364 277

- Men’s Referral Service: Support for men using family violence, offering confidential counselling and resources. Call: 1300 766 491

- Family Relationship Advice Line: Offers information and support for family separation, parenting arrangements, and more. Call: 1800 050 321

- Women’s Health Centres: Specialised support for women affected by domestic violence, including counselling and medical services. Contact your local centre.

- In Immediate Danger: Call: Triple Zero (000)

- Legal Aid Australia: Provides legal services and support for those experiencing domestic violence. Each state has its own Legal Aid office. Contact your local centre.

- Family Court of Australia: Offers resources on family law, protection orders, and information on navigating the court system for those affected by family violence. Visit: familycourt.gov.au

Legal Protection Orders

If you need protection, apply for legal orders such as Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders (ADVOs) or similar orders in your state or territory.

Tech Safety Tips

For technology-related abuse, contact WESNET or visit the eSafety Commissioner for guidance on how to protect yourself from tech-facilitated abuse

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Key Topics covered in this ep: Family and Domestic Violence Workplace Safety Gender Equality Employee Support Workplace Training White Ribbon Australia Domestic Violence Leave Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) Violence Prevention Policies Inclusive Workplaces Workplace Culture Supporting Survivors Gender-Based Violence Mental Health in the Workplace Workplace Leadership Safer Work Environments Discreet Support Resources Ending Violence Against Women Workplace Wellbeing Economic Impact of Domestic Violence