Standing Together Applauds Safe Leave Bill and Highlights the Need for Coordinated, Survivor-Centric Support

At Standing Together Against Domestic Abuse, we warmly welcome the Domestic Abuse (Safe Leave) Bill, which introduces a vital provision granting victims of domestic abuse the right to 10 days of paid leave. This measure addresses a significant barrier that many survivors face—lack of financial stability—empowering them to take the time needed to prioritise their safety, access support services, and begin rebuilding their lives. 

The bill demonstrates a clear, survivor-centric approach, ensuring that victims can take the steps necessary to leave abusive situations without the added pressure of losing their income. By directly responding to the needs of victims, this bill offers essential financial and emotional relief, helping to break the cycle of abuse and providing the space for survivors to make informed, safe decisions. 

We are encouraged that the bill reflects a wider commitment to provide a coordinated, multi-agency response to domestic abuse. Effective collaboration between government, employers, charities, and other stakeholders will be essential to ensure that survivors are not only supported with time off work but also with comprehensive resources to rebuild their lives. 

The Safe Leave Bill builds on the progress made with the Domestic Abuse Act 2021, which already recognises the profound impact of domestic abuse on victims and their children. By providing paid leave, this bill adds another layer of protection, reinforcing our collective effort to reduce domestic abuse and provide a robust, survivor-centred response across society. 

Standing Together remains committed to supporting this crucial step forward, advocating for policies that offer practical and effective solutions to end domestic abuse. Employers can be key in this, especially when work becomes a safe place. We believe that when survivors are supported, we all benefit—together, we can reduce the incidence of abuse and provide a stronger, safer society for all. 

Cherryl Henry-Leach, CEO of Standing Together Against Domestic Abuse, shares,

"The Domestic Abuse (Safe Leave) Bill is a pivotal step in addressing the complex and far-reaching impact of domestic abuse. By providing paid leave, we address the immediate financial barriers many victims face but also acknowledge the pervasive effects of economic abuse. Survivors will have the necessary time to seek safety, access support, and begin rebuilding their lives. Moreover, this bill recognises the ripple effect domestic abuse has on children, ensuring that we provide holistic support for the entire family. Standing Together supports this critical measure as part of a wider, coordinated response to end domestic abuse and its devastating impact."