Domestic violence

We recognise that domestic abuse is a serious issue within society which affects many people and will take all practical steps to support all employees who are victims of domestic abuse.  We are committed to developing a workplace culture with zero tolerance for violence of any kind.

Any employee who is experiencing domestic abuse and feels that we can offer the support they need should speak to you, Personnel Services, or the Employee Support Team (Finance and Corporate Resources).  If preferred, an employee can request to speak to someone of the same sex.  As stated in Section 5 of the policy, this matter will be dealt with on a strictly confidential basis and only those with a “need to know” will be made aware of the situation, with the employee’s consent.   

It is vitally important that you are able to signpost the employee to the help and supports that they may need.

Counselling Service

Any employee who feels that domestic abuse is having an impact on their emotional well-being can arrange to attend one-to-one counselling sessions.  Employees can contact the Employee Counselling Service directly to self refer or they can ask you, Personnel Services, Trade Union Representative and/or the Employee Support Team to organise an appointment for them.

Special leave provisions

Individuals who are experiencing domestic abuse may require taking time off work in order to visit solicitors, banks, schools, support agencies etc, and this can be accommodated through the Council’s policies such as Special Leave.  Such arrangements should be made, in confidence, through the employee’s line manager.  Alternatively, this can be progressed through Personnel Services, or the Employee Support Team, Finance and Corporate Resources, who may then discuss the matter with you if appropriate, as always, with the individual’s consent.

Meetings with third parties

We recognise that individuals who are experiencing domestic abuse may also require to arrange to meet with third parties eg. support agencies, police etc, for short periods during normal working hours and can accommodate requests from employees to hold such meetings on the Council premises, subject to room availability.  Again, such arrangements will be made in confidence, through discussions with you.