Tuesday, November 15, 2011

The survivor goes to her job

The leading cause of death for women inside the workplace is...relationship violence.  Husbands and boyfriends attack their victims at work about 260 times a week in the U.S. So:
  • At work, decide whether to tell your boss (see if he can help you access services), the security boss (provide a picture of the abuser), HR, and possibly others about your problems.
  • If they try to fire you because of the abuse problem (it’s happened), sue and tell the media if you have to.
  • Keep a copy of the TRO at work. Show the security guy, and include a picture.
  • Have someone screen your calls – save any abusive or threatening messages by the abuser, email too. Use a password for incoming calls if need be.
  • Think about and practice a safety plan for your workplace. Have someone walk you in and out.
  • Change your work hours and route taken to work, lunchtime included.
  • Change your point-of-contact details at work, and ensure that no one is giving out your new phone extension or address. Block the abuser's emails if need be.
  • Have a lunch buddy – and while you’re at lunch, move your car right in front of the entrance for a quick getaway at night. Back the car into the parking space. Keep it gassed up.
  • Does your car have a key alarm?
  • Have a plan for driving home (not alone if possible – at least have someone walk you to the car).
  • Have a plan for using public transportation (if you see the abuser at your usual stop, sail on to the next station, get off with another passenger, or get help from the driver)
  • Have a backup plan for when things go sour (drive to a public place).
  • If your work area is not accessible by the abuser, use it as a preparation point for your escape plan, but not as the actual launch point the day you leave – too obvious.
  • If it's a large firm, try to transfer to a new site.
  • Ask your boss or HR person if you can use a work computer for your safety plan; they might also be able to hook you up with community DV resources. 
  • Does HR have a domestic-violence support program? Someone who can listen and help?
  •  Ask for leave to deal with your problems if need be.  
  • If your workplace takes an indifferent attitude toward your problem, or condones the abuser's behavior -- can you quit?

No comments: