Sharon Livermore, a business owner and domestic abuse survivor from Ely, has started a campaign to help employers tackle domestic abuse called 'Working it Out'.

Sharon launched the campaign after she was forced to take five days of her annual leave to attend the court case of her abusive partner.

She then created 'Sharon's Policy' in 2021, which allows businesses to improve safeguarding procedures for victims of abuse. 

Sharon's Policy forms part of the 'Working it Out' campaign, which is in collaboration with the Domestic Abuse Alliance and The HR Dept, an outsourced HR provider.

The 'Working it Out' six step pledge invites employers to take action by:

1. Becoming a member of the Employer's Initiative on Domestic Abuse

2. Introducing and embedding a domestic abuse policy in the workplace

3. Ensuring all staff know where to get help if they are experiencing domestic abuse

4. Raising awareness of domestic abuse among employees

5. Publicly sharing their commitment to the 'Working it Out' pledge

6. Reporting back on activities and achievements annually

Recommended Reading: Cambridgeshire: Woman shares domestic abuse stalking story

Sharon, who was made an MBE in the King's New Years Honours 2024, offers specialised training on domestic abuse and its impact on their workforces. 

She said: "When I was experiencing domestic abuse, my employer couldn't fully support me - because they didn't understand what help I needed or how to provide it.

"The 'Working it Out' pledge provides a platform for employers to actively demonstrate their commitment to raising awareness of domestic abuse and providing the right support so their employees and business can thrive."

Sharon added: "Colleagues and managers can often be the only other people outside the home that survivors talk to each day and are therefore uniquely placed to help spot signs of abuse.

The 'Working it Out' pledge is available for employers across the nation to sign.