Domestic abuse and gender-based violence support
We all have the right to feel safe, respected, and supported, both at home and in the workplace. Domestic abuse and gender-based violence, in any form, is never acceptable. If you or someone you know is experiencing harm, or if you’re worried about a colleague, help is available.
What do we mean by domestic abuse and gender-based violence
This can include a range of behaviors, and the list below provides some of the most common.
- Domestic Abuse – Control, intimidation, or harm by a partner.
- Stalking – Persistent unwanted attention, sometimes spilling into work.
- Sexual Harassment – Unwelcome comments, jokes, or advances.
- Sexual Assault – Severe violations that shatter trust and security.
- ‘Honour-Based’ Abuse – Violence tied to family or cultural expectations.
- Commercial Sexual Exploitation – Coercion into sex work or trafficking.
You're Not Alone
If you are experiencing violence, worried about your safety, or concerned about someone else, there are several places you can turn to for help. Support is available both locally and through our own services and reaching out to any of the options below.
Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
Optima Health is our Employee Assistance Provider, enables you to benefit from free, confidential and independent support to help you with any personal, work or family related issues.
Available any time, any day by phone or online including the following:
- 24/7 telephone counselling advice and information service
- Online, mobile enable EAP and welling resources.
You can call the Employee Assistance Programme directly on 0808 168 2143. The operator will ask for your name and the organisation you work for.
You can find out more about the Employee Assistance Programme by logging onto the OIC Wellbeing Hub(opens in new tab). Once you have logged onto the OIC Wellbeing Hub, select Benefits and then Employee Assistance Programme and finally select View Now.
Local Support: Safer Orkney
The Safer Orkney website provides an overview of all local support services available who provide confidential advice, information, and support for anyone affected by domestic abuse or gender‑based violence. Their website offers guidance on recognising abuse, accessing local services such as Women’s Aid and Orkney Rape and Sexual Assault Service (ORSAS), and finding a safe route to help.
You can visit here for more information and support options.
Policies to support you
In the coming months we will be strengthening our commitment to a safe working environment by implementing a set of policies. These policies will outline our responsibilities, set clear expectations for behaviour, and provide guidance on how we prevent and respond to harmful situations. You can find a summary of these policies below:
Supporting colleagues experiencing Domestic Abuse
Our Domestic Abuse Policy provides a safe and supportive framework for colleagues affected by domestic abuse and gender-based violence. It helps managers recognise concerns, handle conversations sensitively, and signpost appropriate support. The policy ensures a confidential, compassionate response alongside practical workplace measures and access to specialist services. You will be able to find this policy here.
Tackling Bullying, Harassment and Discrimination
Our Bullying, Harassment and Discrimination Policy promotes a safe, respectful and inclusive workplace where inappropriate behaviour is not tolerated. It explains what these behaviors look like, how colleagues can raise concerns, and how we will respond. The policy outlines everyone’s responsibilities and where to access support and guidance. You will be able to find this policy here.
Tackling Sexual Harassment
This policy sets out our commitment to a safe and respectful workplace where sexual harassment is never tolerated, and all concerns are handled sensitively. It explains what sexual harassment is, how colleagues can report issues, and the support available to anyone affected. The policy ensures everyone understands their rights, responsibilities, and the steps we take to protect colleagues’ safety and wellbeing. You will be able to find this policy here.
Developing your understanding
To help strengthen our commitment to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive workplace, we encourage you to look at our iLearn resources on these topics. You can find out more below:
Modules Available
- Flexible Working - Practical guidance on enabling fair and inclusive flexible working arrangements.
- Sexual Harassment - A two‑part course covering prevention, responsibilities, and how to build a culture of respect.
- Violence Against Women - A two‑part module exploring the impact of gender‑based violence and the role workplace culture plays in prevention.
All modules are available on iLearn, within the Equally Safe at Work tile.
