Domestic violence extends beyond the private sphere. Within the CEASE network, more than 50 organizations have chosen to take action to make the workplace a caring and supportive environment for victims. This commitment benefits workers, businesses, and society as a whole.
In Belgium, one in three women has been a victim of violence committed by an intimate partner at least once in her lifetime, whether psychological, physical, or sexual. This means that every employer, team leader, or coworker has been, is, or will be in contact with an employee who has experienced gender-based violence, whether it occurs at work or in their private life. To respond effectively and show their commitment, some companies have joined the CEASE network.
In Belgium, the network is coordinated by the think & do tank POUR LA SOLIDARITE. “These are companies that are involved in the fight against domestic violence, but above all in supporting victims,” explains Manon Bouisset, coordinator of the CEASE network in Belgium. More than 50 organizations are members, “covering a fairly broad spectrum, as we have private companies, public organizations, Brussels municipalities, non-profit organizations, cooperatives, etc.” Vivaqua, the public water network operator in Brussels, joined the network in 2024. "We have had an inclusion and diversity policy in place for five years now. All the groundwork was there, so we seized the opportunity to bring them on board," explains Emmanuèle Rycx, Director of Human Resources at Vivaqua.
Domestic violence occurs in the private sphere, but has a strong impact on other social spheres. “Fifty percent of victims of domestic violence talk about it at work. Seventy percent believe it has an impact on their ability to work,” explains Manon Bouisset. Working people spend a large part of their time at work; sometimes it is their only place of social interaction outside their home environment. “Within the network, we believe that violence is a concern for businesses and that it has a real impact on the future of victims.”
Training and support
The commitment is focused on two areas. “The first thing we ask is that at least two people be trained on the issue.” Offered by CEASE, the training aims to “ensure that people understand what domestic violence is, present the signs that can be detected at work, and offer tools for taking concrete action,” explains the network coordinator. Around ten employees have already been trained at Vivaqua. “The training isn't just there to ‘look good’, it allows us to really get to the heart of the matter,” says Sophie Butaeye, Diversity and Inclusion Manager. The Smart cooperative is also part of the CEASE network. Virginie Moyersoen, HR director, remembers these training sessions. “It was a real eye-opener for many people. When you look at the figures, you realize that there are certainly people around us who are affected.”
The company's commitment is also reflected in the awareness raised among its teams. Manon Bouisset regularly visits organizations: “I present the topic for an hour or two. It's very important because it raises awareness among all employees.” The network also offers personalized support: “They take a step back and help us think about the actions that can be implemented,” confirms Virginie Moyersoen. For example, salaries can be paid into the victim's private account rather than a joint account. This has little impact on the company, but for the victim, it can be a valuable help."
Membership of the network is inexpensive. "We simply ask you to sign a charter, promising that you will try to train people. But it's not binding; it's based on a relationship of trust within the network," says Manon Bouisset. However, there are many benefits. “The goal is to offer support to staff and a welcoming workplace,” says Emmanuèle Rycx, HR Director at Vivaqua. "But we remain an economically minded employer. Someone who feels good at work and secure will work well and be committed. We combine well-being and productivity.“ As an added bonus, the company also fulfills its social responsibility. ”It's a triple win."
The aim of the CEASE network is to help support victims of gender-based violence and, in doing so, contribute to creating a safe and secure working environment. It is not the only option available to companies. In the capital, stop-violence.brussels provides a list of tools, brochures, and advice for professionals to help them support victims, including victims of violence between (former) partners. These tools and resources have been validated by experts from the non-profit sector working to combat gender-based violence. The website also provides an interactive map of the support services available in the 19 municipalities of Brussels.
To learn more about Beci's initiatives and its partners, visit www.beci.be.
By Pol Lecointe
