Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council has been re-accredited with a Gold Award from Onus NI, which recognises their commitment and practical support to anyone experiencing domestic abuse.
Through both the Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence Workplace Policy and the Safe Place initiative, council works collaboratively with a number of statutory agencies and health trusts to ensure that support and protection of individuals and families experiencing domestic violence is a priority in all council buildings.
“Council is committed to the principle that domestic abuse and sexual violence is unacceptable behaviour and everyone has the right to live free from fear and abuse,” commented Councillor Liam Mackle, Chair of the Governance, Resources and Strategy Committee.
“While domestic abuse may occur in the home, its impact stretches into every aspect of victims’ lives – including their working life, so it is imperative that we are well prepared to play our part in supporting anyone affected.
To receive this Gold Award once again from Onus ensures that we have the right procedures in place to offer the
best support possible.”
The Domestic Abuse and Sexual Violence Policy focuses on supporting employees who have been affected by, or are at risk of domestic and/or sexual violence and abuse. The policy and the associated support mechanisms ensures that council can fulfil its duty of care to its employees and help create a safe and supportive workplace for all.
The Safe Place Initiative is a simple but very effective initiative that allows council to provide a ‘Safe Place’ where anyone in our community affected by domestic abuse can confidentially access information on the range of support services available to them from specific council facilities.
“The damage caused by domestic abuse can last a lifetime,” added Councillor Mackle. “We all have a duty not only to support those affected but also to prevent others falling victim in future.”
