A Soundscape of Victim-Survivors’ Experiences of Domestic Abuse in the Workplace

A 30 minute sound installation inside a staged office environment, where testimonies from victim-survivors of domestic abuse are played through speakers, documenting (1) how domestic abuse affected them in their workplace, (2) what employers could, or did, do to support them, and (3) the ongoing impact this response had on their lives. The aim is to show how domestic abuse follows victim-survivors into the workplace, and to raise awareness of the positive impact it can have when an employer provides support to employees. The Employers’ Initiative on Domestic Abuse will have a stall outside the main room, providing information about how they support employers. There will also be support available for attendees.

Domestic abuse affects 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men. Many suffer in silence, even at work. Research shows that victim-survivors find it hard to perform their best at work, and often they are targeted at their workplace. The scale of the problem demands that every part of our society rises to this challenge, including employers.

In partnership with the Employer’s Initiative on Domestic Abuse, this event intends to creatively and powerfully demonstrate to the public - as employers and employees - that colleagues experiencing domestic abuse continue to suffer in the workplace, and that employers are in a unique position to offer support. Drawing on the testimonies of victim-survivors of domestic abuse, attendees will hear first-hand how domestic abuse directly affects people in the workplace, and how employer responses can save lives.

Dr Sarah Ralph-Lane (Sociology) and Dr Clare Wiper (Criminology) in partnership with the Employers’ Initiative on Domestic Abuse

This event is for adults-only, and those attending should be prepared to hear challenging content. The organisers have issued a content warning and would like to make potential attendees aware that domestic abuse and its impacts will be a dominant theme of the event. Support and signposting is available for those who may need it. 

Of particular interest to employers, employees, and victim-survivors of domestic abuse.

The audio installation will last for 30 minutes, playing on a loop. Drop in anytime between 5-7pm if you want to listen to the full installation.