Domestic Abuse

New domestic abuse offence comes into force (February 2021)

Domestic abuse in all its forms, both physical and non-physical, is wrong and will not be tolerated, Justice Minister Naomi Long said. Read full Press Release HERE:

• DAART digital domestic abuse awareness raising tool
• Watch the six TV ads HERE

Support for staff affected by domestic abuse

Domestic abuse is a serious crime – last year in the Southern Trust area there were over 5,000 reported incidents of Domestic Abuse. It is estimated that 1 in 4 women will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime. Up to a quarter of domestic abuse crimes affect men.

The definition of Domestic Violence and Abuse is:

‘threatening, controlling, coercive behaviour, violence or abuse (psychological, virtual, physical, verbal, sexual, financial or emotional) inflicted on anyone (irrespective of age, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation or any form of disability) by a current or former intimate partner or family member’

During this COVID-19 pandemic our lives have been drastically altered with home working, social distancing and self-isolation. We know that this can leave those who are at risk or experiencing domestic abuse feel especially isolated, vulnerable, exposed and unsafe at home.  We want to reassure you that if you feel you are at risk of abuse, worried you may commit domestic abuse or are worried about a colleague, advice and support is available.  Below we have listed some organisations and services that can advise and support those experiencing abuse.

For more information on a range of support options available to staff, addressing concerns and supporting colleagues see the Workplace Policy and Guide on Domestic Abuse for Staff and Managers.

If you are experiencing or suspect someone else is suffering from Domestic Abuse you can contact the 24 Hour Domestic and Sexual Violence Helpline on 0808 802 1414.

If you are in danger and need the PSNI but can’t speak:

1. Dial 999
2. Listen to the questions from the 999 operator
3. Respond by coughing or tapping the handset if you can
4. If prompted, press 55  (this lets the 999 call operator know it’s a genuine emergency and you’ll be put through to the police)

For advice and support to help with emotional wellbeing call the SHSCT Psychology Support Line on 028 3756 7524.

Victims of domestic abuse are now able to access safe spaces at Boots pharmacy consultation rooms where specialist domestic abuse services can be contacted for support and advice. This scheme is in response to the desperate situation facing many victims who are isolating with perpetrators during lockdown.

Resources

• Workplace Policy on Domestic Abuse July 2022 V3.1 Final
• Workplace Guide on Domestic Abuse for Staff and Managers July 2022 V3.1 Final
• PSNI Make Yourself Heard Silent Solution Guide
• PSNI Make Yourself Heard Silent Solution Poster

Watch real life story of domestic abuse survivor and steps taken to support her at work below:

Women’s Aid is the lead voluntary organisation in Northern Ireland addressing domestic abuse and providing services for women and children. Visit Women’s Aid Federation Northern Ireland (womensaidni.org) to find out more.

Contacts