Electricity distributor UK Power Networks, which employs 6,000 people, has joined the Employers Initiative on Domestic Abuse (EIDA) in order to take action on domestic abuse.
By becoming a ‘Beacon’ employer, the business pledged to support staff facing abuse by offering support, raising awareness, fostering a safe environment, and providing education and access to services. It also committed to share best practice with other employers, including the use of e-learning, employee forums and campaigns, in order to help lead a culture change among UK businesses.
UK Power Network line managers will be invited to complete domestic abuse awareness training to create a safe and open environment in the workplace. The business will also support employees who are affected by domestic abuse, and those that report it, through its employee assistance programme (EAP) and occupational health services.
According to the business, the same methods will be used to provide education and support to help perpetrators of domestic abuse to stop.
Alex Sturge, head of communications, engagement and development at UK Power Networks, said: “By raising awareness and knowledge among our own employees, we hope to better support those facing domestic abuse. Having access to information and support is key, which is why we are proud be the first utility to sign up as a Beacon of EIDA.”
Sarah Bright, chief executive officer at EIDA, added: “We are very pleased to welcome UK Power Networks as an EIDA Beacon member. They will join our existing Beacon members to provide guidance and support to employers across the UK as they take action on domestic abuse.
“As the first employer from the utilities sector to join our Beacon programme, we look forward to supporting UK Power Networks to develop and share further good practice, both internally and across our network of more than 1,000 employers, including with other businesses in the utilities sector.”