We joined the Employers Against Domestic Abuse initiative
Grant Thornton Baltic has joined the Employers Against Domestic Abuse initiative, launched by the President Kaljulaid Foundation. The initiative brings together employers who believe that workplaces play an important role in preventing and reducing domestic abuse by creating aware, supportive, and safe working environments.
Employee well-being and a positive workplace culture have long been important priorities for Grant Thornton Baltic. We spend a significant part of our lives at work, and we believe that a supportive workplace positively influences not only people’s well-being, but also their relationships, confidence, and professional contribution. When people feel supported at work, that positive experience extends beyond the workplace and is reflected in the way we collaborate with colleagues and serve our clients.
Domestic abuse is not solely a private matter. It can have a profound impact on a person’s mental health, sense of safety, ability to work, and overall well-being. Research shows that its effects often extend into working life, affecting employees, colleagues, and organisations alike. As employers, we have an opportunity to help create an environment where people know how to recognise concerns, where to seek help, and feel safe asking for support when needed.
Joining the initiative is a natural continuation of our ongoing efforts to support employee well-being. Over the years, we have invested in building a workplace where people feel valued, respected, and supported. We are a signatory of the Diversity Charter, actively promote work-life balance, and have been recognised by Peaasi.ee with the Bronze Label for Mentally Healthy Organisations. By joining an initiative dedicated to preventing and reducing domestic abuse, we continue our commitment to fostering a safe and supportive workplace culture.
As a first step, we organised an awareness training session for all employees. The training covered the nature and impact of domestic abuse, potential warning signs, the role of employers and colleagues in providing support, and the resources available for those seeking help.
Domestic abuse can be a difficult topic to discuss. That is precisely why we believe it is important to raise awareness and encourage open conversations. We want our people to feel confident recognising potential concerns in themselves and others, and to know where support is available if needed.
According to Mati Nõmmiste, Managing Partner of Grant Thornton Baltic, joining the initiative is far more than a symbolic gesture.
“Statistics show that a significant number of people, regardless of gender, have experienced domestic abuse. This means the issue affects many organisations, including our own. We must create an environment where people feel safe and comfortable speaking about their concerns. Only then can we help them find the support they may need.”
Joining the initiative is only the beginning. We will continue raising awareness, providing information and support, and strengthening a workplace culture where care, empathy, and support are reflected in everyday actions.
The Employers Against Domestic Abuse initiative aims to help organisations better understand the nature and impact of domestic abuse, recognise its signs, and respond effectively. More information about the initiative, as well as the organisations that have joined it, is available at www.vagivallavabaks.ee/en.