Everyone will be affected by crime at some point in his or her life. While individual reactions to crime will vary depending on the crime and the severity of it, crime in the workplace can cause particular problems. Crime at work can involve a wide range of incidents including abuse, threats, assaults and robbery.
Many crimes that take place in the workplace involve violence or the threat of it. The experience can be extremely stressful, affecting colleagues, employers and many aspects of the working environment. The effects can be severe and long lasting.
Reactions to the trauma and threat of the incident can be both physical and emotional.
Physical reactions can include tension, nausea and weakness in the limbs. Headaches, dizziness, panic attacks, sleeplessness or prolonged sleep are other common responses.
Emotional reactions include shock, disbelief, fear, anger, guilt, sadness and feelings of isolation.
There is no set pattern to these feelings. Individuals may experience some, all or none of these reactions. The symptoms may appear within days or take several weeks to occur.
If you are assaulted or threatened in the course of your work, it can be difficult to talk openly with colleagues or your employer. You may feel unable to return to work. If you have to deal with a variety of criminal justice agencies, this can be confusing and upsetting, especially if your case goes to court.
Victim Support understands the issues raised by crime in the workplace. Our trained volunteers and staff provide free confidential and independent support, advice and information. We can assist with claims for criminal injuries compensation, support you through the criminal justice process and we can put you in touch with other agencies that can help. We can also arrange support from the Witness Service if the case goes to court.
Victim Support can also provide customised training for employers to help them to support their staff in the aftermath of crime in the workplace.
Call Victim Support on the number below or find your local service under Victim Service or Witness Service in the telephone directory or from our online directory of services.
CALL US 0845 603 9213