Proposed Leave for Domestic Abuse in Northern Ireland

In Northern Ireland, proposals for safe leave in cases of domestic abuse have been a topic of discussion to support victims. So, in 2022, the Northern Ireland Assembly passed the Domestic Abuse (Safe Leave) Act, which should entitle victims of domestic abuse to ten days paid safe leave each year to deal with issues of domestic abuse.

Anthony McDowell

10/31/20241 min read

The Act has not been implemented as yet and DfE is looking for input as to how it can be applied in practical terms.

The proposals aim to provide employees with the right to take paid leave when dealing with the impacts of domestic abuse, allowing them to seek help, relocate, or attend court without the added stress of losing income.

Key aspects included in these proposals are:

Paid Leave: Employees would be entitled to a specific number of paid leave days to address issues related to domestic abuse.
Job Protection: Protections against dismissal or discrimination for those taking leave due to domestic abuse.
Confidentiality: Employers would be required to handle disclosures of domestic abuse sensitively and confidentially.
Support Services: Guidance on access to support services, counselling, and legal advice would be provided to employees.
Awareness Training: Training for employers to recognise the signs of domestic abuse and understand how to support affected employees.

These proposals aim to create a safer environment for victims and encourage them to seek the help they need without fear of financial or professional repercussions. The LRA has produced guidance on this topic but talk to Kmarc if you are having difficulty with this issue or any other comparative issue.

This is a very difficult issue for organisations to get to grips with.

At Kmarc.co.uk we can offer help and advice.

email jacqui@kmarc.co.uk or phone 0734 123 5848

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