Domestic Violence in the Workplace: A Trauma-Informed Approach for Employers

Domestic violence doesn’t stay at home. It affects employees’ safety, well-being, productivity, and their careers — often surfacing at work long before it’s formally disclosed.

Many workplaces aren’t prepared to respond safely, legally, or effectively. At Clausework, I help organizations move beyond surface-level policies to build trauma-informed, gender-responsive frameworks that genuinely support survivors.

Defining Domestic and Intimate Partner Violence

A clear definition in workplace policies is essential. Effective frameworks recognize:

• Non-physical abuse: emotional, psychological, and financial harm

• Gendered patterns of abuse: how power and privilege shape workplace dynamics

• Signs at work: stalking, harassing calls, intimidation, financial sabotage

• Moving beyond narrow narratives: understanding that leaving the relationship isn’t the only solution

Clear definitions allow workplaces to respond thoughtfully, rather than relying on assumptions or stereotypes.

Read more about defining domestic violence in your workplace policies in this separate blog post.

Responding to Perpetrators

When a perpetrator is also an employee, immediate termination may not always be the safest or legally compliant option. My approach helps organizations:

• Balance accountability with survivor safety

• Coordinate discipline alongside broader risk management

• Manage ongoing workplace safety obligations for all staff

This ensures responses are safe, legally sound, and survivor-centered.

Designing a Coordinated Response System

Workplaces benefit from clear, pre-established processes. I help employers design domestic violence response plans covering:

• HR pathways and decision-making

• Security and IT safeguards

• Financial accommodations

• Confidentiality and privacy protections

• Preliminary risk assessments

• Survivor-centered continuity of support

A coordinated system reduces ad hoc decisions and creates a predictable, safe environment.

Interested in learning about how a former Fortune 500 company did this? Check out this journal article.

Shifting Workplace Culture

Policies alone aren’t enough. A workplace culture that encourages awareness, allyship, and empathy is crucial.

This includes:

• Full-team education on domestic violence, not just manager training

• Training leaders and colleagues to recognize warning signs and open supportive conversations

• Communicating values centered on empathy, respect, and non-judgment

• Encouraging allyship rather than fear or shame

When domestic violence is addressed proactively, workplaces are safer, more inclusive, and supportive for everyone.

Takeaway:

Domestic violence is complex, but workplaces don’t have to navigate it alone. With trauma-informed policies, clear processes, and a culture of awareness, organizations can support employees effectively, legally, and humanely — and contribute to a workplace where everyone can thrive.

➡️ Reach out to learn how I can support you.