§ Margaret MoranTo ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry what steps she is taking to raise awareness in the workplace of domestic violence. [97753]
§ Alan JohnsonOften the workplace can be a place of safety for women. They may confide in their colleagues about their experiences. It is a place where others can notice what is going on, and where there is an opportunity to help women to access the support they can so desperately need.
The TUC has recently published a workplace guide. This sets out guidance on how to provide a workplace policy on domestic violence, why it is an issue that matters in the workplace, and useful information contacts.
Women's Aid, in association with Opportunity Now, are launching a Good Practice Guide for Employers on Domestic Violence on 2 April 2003.
The Women and Equality Unit has been closely involved with both these initiatives.