Waldrons Solicitors will be supporting an important West Midlands Business Festival workshop exploring why domestic abuse must be recognised and addressed as a workplace issue.
The free event, Why Domestic Abuse is a Workplace Issue, will take place on Wednesday 11th February from 10am to 1pm at the Copthorne Hotel, Merry Hill, and is being delivered in partnership with Black Country Women’s Aid. It also forms the focus of next month’s Waterfront Matters event, bringing together organisations from across the region.
Domestic abuse affects people from all backgrounds and professions, and its impact often extends into working life. Changes in attendance, performance, confidence and wellbeing are common, yet many employers feel uncertain about how to respond appropriately or where their responsibilities begin and end.
The workshop is designed to support businesses of all sizes and sectors to better understand the realities of domestic abuse, recognise the signs, and respond in a way that is informed, compassionate and practical. The session will include interactive training, real-life scenarios, group discussion and a panel of workplace and safeguarding experts.
Sara Ward, CEO at Black Country Women’s Aid said:
“Domestic abuse does not stay at home. It follows people into work, affecting their safety, wellbeing and ability to cope day to day. Employers play a vital role, often without realising it and this workshop is about giving organisations the confidence, knowledge and boundaries they need to support staff safely and appropriately.”
Waldrons will be represented on the panel by Courtney Stephenson, Associate Solicitor in Corporate and Employment Law, who advises employers across the region on people management, compliance and workplace risk. Rachel Hill of Metro Bank and Sam Shaw of BSN Group will be joining Courtney on the panel.
Commenting on the event, Courtney said:
“Many employers want to do the right thing but are worried about getting it wrong. The reality is that you don’t need to have all the answers. Understanding your responsibilities, recognising the signs and knowing when and how to signpost to specialist support can make a real difference for someone who may be experiencing abuse.”
The workshop will be particularly relevant for business owners, people managers and HR professionals and will offer clear, realistic guidance on creating supportive workplaces without placing unrealistic expectations on employers.
Attendance is free, but places are limited and registration is required. Please register here: https://booking.wmbf.co.uk/why-domestic-abuse-is-a-workplace-issue/
