Sir, – Further to Trish’s Murphy’s latest “Tell Me About It” column (“My colleague has said she’s having marital difficulties. Worryingly, it includes physical abuse”, Health + Family, March 27th), during the Covid-19 pandemic, work and home lives collided and the hidden reality for many victims of domestic abuse surfaced. We now have a better understanding that domestic abuse extends far beyond the personal into all aspects of women’s lives.
More than one in three (37 per cent) working people surveyed across multiple industries and at varying levels of seniority have experienced domestic abuse. The impacts of domestic abuse on workers are stark: reduced productivity, increased absenteeism, and cessation of employment.
Several months ago, Ireland introduced a groundbreaking provision for statutory domestic violence leave, one of the first countries in the EU to do so.
Addressing domestic violence as an employer reduces the risk of victims giving up work, provides increased financial security and shows solidarity and support at a time when they may feel completely isolated and alone.
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Statutory domestic violence leave is most effectively implemented when introduced as part of a wider organisational response to domestic violence and abuse, including a domestic violence policy, training for key personnel and awareness initiatives.
By taking this action, employers are offering practical support to help those affected to stay safe in and around the workplace, maintain productivity, and remain in employment.
Women’s Aid’s 24-hour national freephone helpline 1800 341 900 is available to colleagues and employers who are concerned about someone.
We have also been contracted by the Department of Children Equality Disability Integration and Youth to provide direct support to employers and have produced a template domestic violence policy and other helpful guidance for employers of all sizes. This is available at dvatwork.ie. – Yours, etc,
SARAH BENSON,
CEO,
Women’s Aid,
Dublin 2.