New guidance for managers on rape could ‘create real change’ for women workers

Managers are being told they have a “key role” to play in helping those who are victims of rape, with a new guide being published to help them recognise signs someone has been sexually assaulted.

Workplace equality charity Close the Gap launched the guidance, which was drawn up with the help of Rape Crisis Scotland – saying it has the “potential to create real change”.

It details signs employers should recognise that might indicate someone has been the victim of a sexual assault – such as a change in job performance, attendance or behaviour.

In addition, it also gives managers advice on how to create a supportive environment to raise the issue.

Anna Ritchie Allan, executive director of Close the Gap, said: “We’re delighted to be launching this new guidance for employers which has the potential to create real change for women workers in Scotland.

“Rape and sexual assault are common experiences, affecting all aspects of women’s lives, and the workplace is no exception.

“Whether it happens at work or outwith the workplace, it can affect a woman’s ability to do her job, and in some cases women leave employment altogether.

“Evidence shows that women often don’t feel confident to report their experiences, and where they do, they feel unsupported by their employer.”

Anna Ritchie Allan of Close the Gap said the guidance has ‘the potential to create real change for women workers’. (Close the Gap/PA). PA Media

She added: “Line managers have a key role to play so that victim-survivors have trust in the reporting process, and can access the support they need.

“Employers should also take steps to create a workplace culture which is inclusive and safe for women.

“We’re very grateful to survivors for sharing their experiences with us which were invaluable to developing the guidance.”

One person who was part of Rape Crisis Scotland’s survivor reference group told how they were “so exhausted from the trauma and the fear and the pain that being able to get up in the morning required too much”.

Adding that their employers “were annoyed when I asked for a week of annual leave”, they revealed this made them feel “ashamed” and “alone”.

Sandy Brindley, the chief executive of Rape Crisis Scotland, meanwhile said: “Rape and sexual assault are not often thought of as a workplace issue but, when one in four women have experienced sexual violence, it’s crucial that employers understand how to support survivors in the workplace.

“The sad reality is many women choose not to report what has happened to them because they are afraid of not being believed or do not know what support is available to them.

“This guidance will help employers recognise the signs that someone has been raped or sexually assaulted and how to create workplace policies to support survivors.

“Perhaps most importantly, it will help give them the confidence to start a conversation about sexual violence that they otherwise would not have had.”