Workplace Initiative
Relationship Abuse takes work away from businesses and families.
It takes work for businesses to join with Safe Haven and others to support survivors and end relationship abuse.
Takes Work options for your workplace
In-Person (available) and Virtual (expected 2026)
- Lunch and Learn – A 30 minute introduction for all staff focused on recognizing and responding.
- Takes Work for Supervisors and HR Teams – A 60 minute workshop focused on recognizing, responding and referring.
- Takes Work for Leadership – A 60 minute workshop focused on building a safe culture for recognizing, responding and referring.
For more information, contact prevention@shmgr.org
What is Domestic Abuse?
Domestic violence is a pattern of learned behavior that one person uses to control a partner in an intimate relationship. Abuse can affect anyone regardless of the person’s culture, race, ethnicity, age, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, or socio-economic background.
1 in 5 full-time employed adults reports they were victims of domestic violence.
Each time a victim is assaulted by their partner and survives that attack, they miss an average of 7 days of work and requires $816 of medical and mental health care.
Warning Signs
Signs of Abuse - For a Victim
- Have repeated unexplainable injuries
- Show signs of being frightened and/or anxious
- Exhibit changes in job performance
- Regularly be late to work or have regular unexplained absences
- Receive an unusual number of phone calls or texts from family members
- Mention troubles at home or feel uncomfortable talking about home life
Signs of Abuse - Perpetrators
Some perpetrators of domestic violence may:
- Steal or damage company property
- Have frequent angry outbursts or temper tantrums
- Display threatening or intimidating behavior
- Call or text a current or former partner excessively
Where To Get Help
Calling a hotline can be intimidating for someone who is experiencing violence. Offer to sit with the person as they make the call. It is important to remind a survivor that making the call does not have to mean they’ve made the decision to leave an abuser; someone can call a hotline to learn more about resources available to them, safety plan, and receive emotional support.
Domestic Abuse Providers in Kent County, MI
Safe Haven Ministries (call or text): 616.452.6664
YWCA West Central Michigan: 616.451.2744
