Having a staff member or contractor kidnapped is distressing, disruptive and challenging for any organisation. In addition to dealing with the resolution of the incident, your duty of care extends to supporting the hostages’ family and colleagues. It can be emotional and distressing for everyone involved.
The experience of captivity has a huge impact on the returning hostage, especially on their physical and mental health and also in dealing with the practical challenges that arose out of their absence. As a result, returning to work can be a daunting experience for the hostages.
Based on our experience of helping hundreds of families, this guide offers practical ways in supporting a returning hostage back into the workplace in a way that reduces the impact on them, as well as on their colleagues.