Domestic Violence Awareness Month
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, an international campaign, which began in the United States in 1981 and later launched nationwide in October 1989. The lockdowns imposed by COVID-19 have caused a huge increase in domestic abuse incidents of all forms, so awareness and support is more crucial than ever.
Domestic violence is prevalent in every community, and affects all people regardless of age, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, gender, race, religion, or nationality. It is estimated that one quarter of women and one sixth of men experience domestic abuse at some point in their lives.
The UK government’s definition of domestic abuse is ‘any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening behavior, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are, or have been, intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality. The abuse can encompass, but is not limited to psychological, physical, sexual, financial, emotional.’
- Domestic abuse can take different forms, including:
- Physical abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Financial abuse
- Coercive control and gaslighting / emotional abuse
- Digital / online abuse
- ‘Honour-based’ violence
- Forced marriage
- Female genital mutilation (FGM)
Guidance for Staff
The University recognises that members of staff can be affected by domestic abuse, and this may have an impact on their safety, wellbeing, and ability to work. The University is committed to ensuring all members of staff are provided with a safe working environment, in which risks to health and wellbeing are considered and staff are supported.
We would like to make you aware of the University’s Domestic Abuse – Guidance for Staff to help support members of staff experiencing domestic abuse as well as signposting to relevant and appropriate further information and specialist support. This guidance is also aimed at helping those who have concerns that a colleague may be experiencing abuse, or who may receive a disclosure, to respond appropriately.
