Marvin OnumonuBidvest Noonan has launched a domestic violence policy and support framework for 27,000 colleagues across the UK and Ireland.
The move follows research from UN Women which found nearly one in three women experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetime, while only 40% seek help.
The company said domestic abuse affects people across all regions, and has put in place up to five days of paid domestic violence leave for all staff, including those in the UK where there is no statutory entitlement.
As well as paid leave, the framework includes flexible working, confidential changes to payment methods, time off for appointments, 24-hour access to the employee assistance programme and bespoke workplace safety plans.
Bidvest Noonan has also developed a domestic violence toolkit and manager guidance, and is working with Women’s Aid to deliver line manager training.
Julie Mernagh (pictured, centre), chief people and culture officer at Bidvest Noonan, said: “Domestic abuse affects people in ways that are often hidden from view.
“We want colleagues to feel they can come forward and be met with care and confidentiality.
“This policy gives people support when they need it, including paid leave and other forms of support.”
Mernagh added: “Our focus is on making sure no one has to navigate these situations alone at work.”
Declan Doyle, CEO at Bidvest Noonan, said: “Home should be a safe place, but for many people it is not.
“We want our workplace to be somewhere colleagues feel supported and never alone.
“By putting these supports in place, we are giving people time, space and understanding when they need it most.”
Doyle added: “Our hope is that this policy helps colleagues feel safer and more protected.”
