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How does divorce affect your employees and what can employers do to support their staff during this stressful time
With over 40% of marriages ending in divorce, it’s highly likely that any workplace will have someone going through this challenging experience. Moreover, research consistently shows that divorce-related stress impacts workplace performance.
While divorce is a deeply personal issue, employers can take steps to support their employees. Consequently, this support can mitigate the negative effects on both the employee and the workplace.
The Impact of Divorce on Employees and the Workplace
Divorce can affect employees and workplaces in several ways:
– Low Mood and Reduced Productivity: A study by the Positive Parenting Alliance found that 90% of participants said it negatively affected their work performance.
– Absence Due to Stress and Mental Health Issues: The same study reported that 95% of participants experienced negative mental health impacts. As a result, 40% took time off work due to separation.
– Time Off for Court Hearings: Employees may need to attend court hearings, which can disrupt business operations. Court dates are non-negotiable and out of the employee’s control.
– Employee Turnover: 11% of study participants left their jobs altogether as a result of their divorce.
How Businesses Can Support Employees Through Divorce
Employee wellbeing initiatives have become increasingly popular. These initiatives play a crucial role in supporting employees. Here are some specific steps employers can take:
Top Tips for Employers:
1. Introduce Family-Friendly HR Policies: Recognise separation and divorce as significant life events in your HR policies.
2. Signpost to Guidance and Resources: Provide access to helpful resources that support employees going through a separation.
3. Offer Therapeutic Support Services: Provide access to therapeutic support or specialist divorce coaches. This helps employees maintain focus and emotional stability.
4. Allow Flexibility: Offer flexible working hours to accommodate court dates and necessary meetings.
5. Join the Positive Parenting Alliance HR Initiative: Follow the lead of companies like Tesco, Asda, Vodafone, and Unilever by signing up for initiatives that support employees experiencing separation.
In addition, encourage employees to engage in out-of-court dispute resolution options. Family mediation or collaborative divorce methods are faster and more cost-effective than court proceedings. Therefore, these methods reduce stress and help employees retain control over decisions. For more information, visit our Family Mediation and Collaborative Divorce page.
Our Personal Legal Services team, including experienced family solicitors and mediators, works directly with employers to provide advice and support to employees. To find out more, please contact us.
Richard Buckley is a Senior Associate Solicitor, Family Mediator and Collaborative Lawyer in our family team.