Hannah Wayte
Practitioner and researcher on domestic violence as a workplace issue
Domestic violence and abuse is a workplace issue
1 in 3 people are subjected to domestic violence and abuse across their working lives
The issue is likely present among the workforce, whether there is awareness of it or not. This positions work as a valuable space for action in addressing domestic violence.
Perpetrators of domestic abuse cause serious harm to employees and the workplace
They create occupational health and safety issues for all, negatively impact targeted employees’ and their own performance, and drive high costs for employers.
Workplace domestic abuse is an equality issue
The vast majority of victim-survivors are female. Harms of domestic abuse can have a significant impact on women’s ability to maintain employment and achieve their full potential. This creates inequality for women at work and in wider society.
Hi, I’m Hannah!
I spend much of my time immersed in the intersection of domestic abuse and the world of work. My own lived experience of being subjected to coercive control and the unbelievable strength and resilience of other victims and survivors is the cornerstone of everything I do.
As a practitioner, I support employers to develop safe and meaningful workplace responses to domestic violence through training, policy development and implementation, and awareness-raising. I was a key member of the team contracted by the Government of Ireland to develop resources for employers coinciding with the commencement of statutory domestic violence leave in 2023.
As a researcher, I published a proposed framework for the effective implementation of statutory domestic violence leave in Ireland.
The rest of the time you’ll likely find me with my hands in the dirt as a proud plant parent, or my nose in a book.
Resources
Interested in learning more about developing a workplace response to domestic abuse, including implementing domestic violence leave? Get started with these resources.
Effective implementation of statutory domestic violence leave in Ireland (Wayte, 2024)
Through a thematic analysis of existing research, this academic paper outlines a six-part framework for the effective implementation of statutory domestic violence leave in Ireland. The framework is a useful tool for any country designing or appraising its approach to the implementation of this progressive employee entitlement. It can also be used by organisations advocating for effective implementation at a national level.
DVatWork.ie
Designed to support the implementation of statutory domestic violence leave in workplaces across Ireland, this page provides a policy template and complementary guidance document for employers.
Workplace support for domestic violence and abuse
Published by Women’s Aid Ireland, this article series addresses key aspects of a safe and effective workplace response to domestic abuse.
#1: Why a workplace response to domestic abuse is necessary
#2: How employers can support staff impacted by domestic abuse
#3: How to foster a culture where employees feel they can ask for domestic abuse support
#4: Ensuring domestic abuse support is accessible to employees
Please note: The views and opinions expressed on this website are purely my own and aren’t a reflection of any other organisation or entity.