Supporting Employees Through Divorce: 5 Essential HR Strategies

How to Foster a Compassionate and Productive Workplace During Personal Challenges

Divorce can hit hard, affecting divorcee’s performance and morale at work. The stats are clear: 81% of employees going through a divorce struggle with productivity, 73% miss more work, and 67% see their health and finances worsen. Recognizing this, many companies are updating their policies to better support staff during such challenging times, something HR’s role is vital in.

Deepa Tailor, an expert in mental health from Divorce Lawyers says, “Providing support for employees during personal crises like divorce is essential. It not only helps team members through difficult times but also maintains a productive and positive work environment.” She reveals five essential HR strategies to support employees through divorce.

Implement Wellness Programs

Wellness programs can cut healthcare costs, boost productivity, and reduce absenteeism and turnover. Plus, they make employees happier and more engaged.

Promote Open Communication

Create an environment where open communication is the norm. Tailor notes, “Providing a safe space for employees to discuss their challenges can lead to better mental health and increased productivity.”

Support Work-Life Balance

“Flexible work arrangements and policies that promote work-life balance help employees juggle their personal and professional responsibilities more effectively, and give them more space to process what’s happening in their life outside of work,” explains Tailor. This reduces stress and boosts overall job satisfaction.

Invest in Stress Management Tools

76% of companies are increasing their investment in stress management and resilience tools, benefiting employees both at work and in their personal lives. According to the Harvard Business Review, companies save $6 in healthcare costs for every $1 spent on their employees’ well-being, highlighting the importance of companies contributing to their employees mental health. Additionally, Tailor adds, “Investing in our employees’ well-being is not just good for them, but also for the company’s overall health.”

Provide Financial and Legal Support

Providing resources like financial counselling and legal help can ease the stress of divorce, making it easier for employees to stay focused at work.

Tailor concludes with a poignant insight: “Supporting employees through personal crises isn’t just about maintaining productivity—it’s about fostering a workplace culture of empathy and resilience. When employees feel valued and supported, they are more likely to thrive, both personally and professionally.”