DOMESTIC ABUSE IS A WORKPLACE ISSUE

UNISON Northern Ireland’s Women’s Committee have been busy preparing for the 16 days of action to end violence against women.  

The 16 days of action run from International End Violence Against Women Day on 25 November up until 10 December. 

To mark International End Violence Against Women and Girls day, UNISON Northern Ireland Women’s Committee hosted an online event ‘Normal was never good enough’, where they discussed domestic abuse as a workplace issue. 

According to Women’s Aid, more than 1 in 5 employed women are experiencing domestic abuse. 

UNISON Northern Ireland has set up a working group to see which employers have a domestic abuse policy in place, and trainings will be established on how to support members experiencing domestic abuse. 

UNISON area organiser Danielle McCusker said: “We need to highlight that abuse, whether it’s physical or mental abuse, or it’s sexual harassment to women and young girls, is wrong. 

And it’s everyone’s responsibility.” 

Read UNISON’s guide on domestic abuse as a trade union issue