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Domestic violence is often seen as a “private” issue. Something that happens in the home or within private relationships. A concern that doesn’t affect others or extend beyond the walls of the home or reaches of the relationship. In reality though, domestic abuse in any form is a concern for all of us. It’s a serious issue that doesn’t just affect the person experiencing it. From close friends to family members to co-workers and even acquaintances, domestic violence is much further reaching than many of us even suspect.

The endeavour was a joint initiative and effort between numerous individuals at the County of Lambton who formed a committee to help roll-out the training to all County employees. Knowing how passionate these individuals are about the importance of this training, we reached out to see if they could share their thoughts. Here, one of the Committee members lets us know why they feel it is crucial that employees take training regarding a problem that is often seen as a ‘private family matter’ yet in reality often reaches far beyond into the workplace as well.

When workers are experiencing violence at home, the impacts are felt in the workplace. This is something for us to reflect upon as we enjoy our February holiday, Family Day.

As we have reported in the past, fully one third of Canadian workers experience domestic violence at some point in their lifetime. Work-related domestic violence can take many forms; for example, even before work hours, the perpetrator may disrupt the victim’s ability to get to work (either on time, or not at all) by hiding keys, physically restraining the victim, or refusing to care for children. During work, domestic violence often takes the form of harassment.  Domestic violence impedes workers’ ability to get to work, it continues while they are in the workplace and not surprisingly, it has a negative impact on their ability to concentrate and be productive.  Research on Canadian workers who are being abusive to their partners and spouses shows similar negative impacts on the workplace.

It has been my observation that the anticipated response to the age old question ‘how are you?’ has evolved from the vague, but generally optimistic ‘fine, and you?’ to ‘BUSY’. The deeper I dig, the more I realize that almost everyone I know is carefully teetering their way across the tight-rope we call life, straining to balance the cyclical demands of their everyday- family, friends, career, health, education, professional development, care of dependents, recreation, social obligations, volunteerism. The list goes on and on.

Survivors of domestic or sexual violence should not have to choose between their job and their safety. That’s the basic principle behind my Private Members’ Bill, the Domestic and Sexual Violence Workplace Leave, Accommodation and Training Act (Bill 26), which provides survivors with up to 10 days of paid leave for specific purposes related to or arising from the violence. These include seeking medical attention, accessing counselling, meeting with police or lawyers, or finding a new place to live (often an urgent challenge for women and their children who are fleeing violence). The bill also provides for additional unpaid leave if necessary, as well as workplace accommodations – such as changes to hours or location of work – and mandatory workplace training on domestic and sexual violence.

The winter holiday season creates many expectations for a time of joy. Television commercials, stores, online advertisements, all show images of happy families and friends celebrating together and enjoying the holiday celebrations.

This isn’t the reality for everyone, though. For many people the holidays are filled with sadness, anxiety or pain. This time of year can bring up difficult memories or bring us into contact with people who we would rather not see. It is especially tough for those who have lost a loved one or are going through difficult times. For some, family get-togethers can bring up painful memories or fears. Others might feel very alone and isolated at this time of year, with limited resources and support.

The tragic death of Dr. Elana Fric-Shamji has left three children without a mother and a community of family members, friends and colleagues shocked and grieving. Her husband, Dr. Mohammed Shamji has been charged with her murder. Police have since revealed that her husband was previously charged with one count of assault and two counts of uttering death threats in May 2005.

Work holiday parties are a great way to end the year. They’re good opportunities to socialize with your co-workers and talk about things you might otherwise not get a chance to on a daily basis. They’re also a time where many employees bring spouses or partners to meet their coworkers. And while it can be fun and exciting to meet your co-worker’s partner, there might be something you should be on the lookout for that hasn’t even crossed your mind. 

‘Tis the season for holiday work parties. With many people celebrating during the month of December - Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa and others - most workplaces also celebrate with a party of their own. These parties are often a fun time, a chance to chat with co-workers about non-work related subjects, and a sometimes-rare opportunity to hang out with people you see every day, outside of the workplace.

Domestic violence is an issue that affects us all. You might have even experienced it firsthand yourself. Or maybe you have a friend, a family member, or a co-worker who has been in an abusive relationship. There’s also a chance that someone you know has experienced violence at the hand of a partner, but you’re not even aware of it. Domestic violence is far-reaching and the emotional, physical and financial implications can be long-lasting.