THE Welsh Government has published a new workplace policy on Violence against Women and Domestic Abuse.

The previous policy was revised in line with the Equality and Human Rights Commission Wales’ best practice guidelines, as part of the 10,000 Safer Lives Project, which aims to improve the way public services respond to prevent instances of domestic abuse.

The policy will provide staff with information and specialist support and empower them to break free from abusive relationships whilst maintaining their employment. It also aims to raise awareness amongst staff of the prevalence and signs of violence against women, domestic abuse and sexual violence.

Local Government and Government Business Minister, Lesley Griffiths, welcomed the updated workplace policy.

She said: “I welcome the publication of this revised policy which clearly demonstrates the Welsh Government will not tolerate any form of abuse to staff inside or outside the workplace.

“Research has shown 1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men experience domestic abuse at some point in their life. It is likely, therefore, all workplaces will have staff who are affected by abuse as well as those who are perpetrators.

The minister drew attention to figures showing 20 per cent of employed women take time off work because of domestic violence.

She added: “I hope that by revising and publishing our new workplace policy we are encouraging other employers to consider how they can best support any staff affected by domestic abuse.”