What the Statutory Domestic Violence Leave means for employers and employees

Hannah Wayte

Employment Engager Project Leader, Women’s Aid

Explore Ireland’s Statutory Domestic Violence Leave provision and how it addresses domestic violence as an employer, reducing work-related challenges for victims.

Ireland has introduced a provision for Statutory Domestic Violence Leave — one of the first countries in the EU to do so. Addressing domestic violence as an employer reduces the risk of victims giving up work, increases financial security and shows solidarity and support at times of isolation.

Hidden reality of domestic abuse

Amidst Covid-19, the intersection of work and home exposed the hidden reality of domestic abuse victims. This issue extends beyond personal life to impact all aspects of women’s lives, with 1 in 3 (37%) working people surveyed across multiple industries and at varying levels of seniority having experienced domestic abuse. The impacts are stark: reduced productivity, increased absenteeism and cessation of employment.

Statutory domestic violence leave is most
effectively implemented when part of
a wider organisational response to
domestic violence and abuse.

Resources for employers

Statutory domestic violence leave is most effectively implemented when part of a wider organisational response to domestic violence and abuse, including a domestic violence policy, training for key personnel and awareness initiatives. By taking action, employers are proactively supporting victims to stay safe in and around the workplace, maintain productivity and remain in employment.