Dear Sir,
In relation to the latest “Tell Me About It” column penned by Trish Murphy, which talks about a colleague suffering from marital problems, including physical abuse (“My colleague has said she’s having marital difficulties. Worryingly, it includes physical abuse”, Health + Family, March 27th), I would like to express my views. The Covid-19 pandemic exposed the grim reality of domestic abuse and its impact on the victims, especially as the lines between work and home life blurred.
Domestic abuse is not confined to the personal realm; it pervades all spheres of a woman’s life, as is now better comprehended. A shocking 37% of employees, across various sectors and hierarchies, have been victims of such abuse. This leads to a decline in productivity, an uptick in absence from work, and even job loss.
A few months back, Ireland instituted a pioneering statute, granting victims of domestic violence the right to take leave. This made it one of the first EU members to implement such a provision.
By proactively addressing domestic violence, employers not only avert the risk of their employees quitting but also provide a sense of financial security. More importantly, they express much-needed support and solidarity in times when victims often feel highly isolated.
The best results from the implementation of statutory domestic violence leave are observed when it’s incorporated into a broader organisational strategy to combat domestic abuse. This should include the development of a domestic violence policy, proper training for key personnel, and awareness initiatives.
This action by employers serves a dual purpose. It provides tangible support to the victims, helping them to maintain safety at work and retain their productivity, and helping them to keep their jobs.
Women’s Aid offers a 24-hour national helpline (1800 341 900), catering to any colleagues and employers worried about a potential victim. We have also been commissioned by the Department of Children Equality Disability Integration and Youth to offer assistance directly to employers. We have developed a model domestic violence policy alongside some very useful guidance for employers of all sizes. All of this is readily available at dvatwork.ie.
Yours sincerely,
Sarah Benson
CEO, Women’s Aid
Dublin 2