Employers attend workshop on domestic violence in the workplace

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Pay attention to the signs and be ready to help -- that was the message for dozens of employers at an uptown summit on domestic violence in the workplace.

A deadly domestic violence shooting just days ago was on the minds of many people at the workshop. Police said Jennifer Smith and her Wells Fargo co-worker, Luc Gonzalez, were shot and killed by Smith's ex-boyfriend at a home on Malibu Drive.

Verizon Wireless helped sponsor the workshop on Friday.  The company has been recognized nationally for its policies to protect employee victims and support domestic violence survivors.

Connie Chaffins with Verizon in Charlotte said the signs of domestic violence at home often spill over into the workplace, so employers must be aware of the signs.

"Changes in performance, shifts in attendance, even changes in attentiveness while at work,” she said.

Chaffins said employees must also be ready to connect workers with community resources that can help them escape.

"An engaged leader, no matter what type of business resources you have, it's about paying attention and being fearless in your concern," she said.

Verizon Wireless just launched the free Hopeline app.  Users can find Hopeline donation boxes and donate used cell phones and accessories for domestic violence victims. It also gives information on shelters and the National Domestic Violence Hotline.

The app is available on the iPhone and Android devices.

WSOC