Employers fight domestic violence

The scheme's founding members hope more firms will join up

Top employers including the NHS, BBC, and the Body Shop have set up a support scheme to fight domestic violence.

The Corporate Alliance Against Domestic Violence offers staff and companies advice and support.

Domestic violence is said to cost the UK economy £3bn a year through its impact on decreased productivity, absenteeism and effect on co-workers.

The founding members hope more firms will join the scheme, which is based on an initiative started in the US.

The Home Office is also backing the project, whose stated aim is to reduce the human and economic impact of domestic violence.

I want to call on all UK employers to join the alliance and make their workplace a supportive environment for employees suffering domestic violence Peter Ridler

Representatives will join Home Secretary Charles Clarke, Domestic Violence Minister Baroness Scotland and Cherie Booth QC at an event to promote the scheme's cause.

"The CAADV is about supporting employees who are experiencing abusive relationships," said Body Shop managing director Peter Ridler.

"I want to call on all UK employers to join the alliance and make their workplace a supportive environment for employees suffering domestic violence.

"It's not something which takes a lot of time or money to do - it could be as simple as informing your employees of the help and advice available to them."

A website set up at www.corporateallianceuk.com offers information on dealing with and reporting domestic violence.