RSA launches new policy to support victims of domestic abuse

Insurer RSA has launched a new policy to support employees who may be suffering as victims of domestic abuse.

The new policy is designed to raise awareness in the workplace of domestic abuse, alongside increasing the visibility of training and guidance resources for supporting survivors among the firm’s employees.

As part of the policy, RSA will provide paid leave for employees that need to take time off to deal with issues relating to domestic abuse.

The Employers Initiative on Domestic Abuse (EIDA) – of which RSA is a member –  helped develop the policy with additional support and resources.

Gemma Jackson, head of diversity and inclusion at RSA said: “At RSA we are committed to protecting the health, safety and wellbeing of all our employees.

“Our new Domestic Abuse Policy strengthens this commitment by sensitively supporting those affected by domestic abuse.

“The policy won’t stand still and will be adapted when required to ensure it always remains relevant and meets the needs of employees.”

Seeking help

To ensure the policy is embedded in the workplace, RSA has rolled out Leaders Awareness Training and set up a network of Domestic Abuse Champions.

Charity Women’s Aid has provided training to RSA’s Domestic Abuse Champions to help them support the business in signposting guidance and resources to victims.

“By caring for victims, educating leaders on the issue of domestic abuse and signposting support for perpetrators to recognise and seek help for their behaviour – we hope this policy will have a positive impact on the collective lives of our workforce,” Jackson added.

Introducing the policy follows the firm issuing domestic abuse guidance in 2021.

RSA’s focus on diversity and inclusion, meanwhile, builds on it unveiling its trans-inclusive policy to support both trans-identified and transitioning employees in March 2022.

The insurer is also on route to become an accredited Menopause Friendly employer.