New violence policy to tackle domestic abuse

Equality

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) has implemented a new domestic abuse and gender-based violence policy aimed at fostering a safe, inclusive and supportive workplace.

The agency partnered with trade union UNISON and Scottish Women’s Aid to provide comprehensive training to its employees in eight initial sessions. Further training opportunities will be rolled out to provide staff with the necessary tools to recognise the signs of domestic abuse and gender-based violence.

Kirsty Paterson, chief officer; people, workspaces and development at SEPA, said: “Domestic abuse and gender-based violence has no place in our society. This policy and the training will be instrumental in equipping our organisation with the knowledge and confidence to support colleagues. Collective action is required to change harmful cultural behaviours.

Gillian Kirkwood, SEPA co-woman’s officer at UNISON, added: “As SEPA’s trade union partner, Unison was delighted to work in partnership on this progressive people policy. Employers such as SEPA can play a positive role in the wellbeing of their colleagues. We recognise the impact of this issue on our society and welcome not only this important policy, but the training and support for employees on domestic abuse and gender-based violence.”