A new domestic violence policy has been launched by RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, with the aim of dealing sensitively with any employee who may be experiencing violence and abuse in their home.

The RCSI Domestic Violence and Abuse Leave Policy was developed following engagement and consultation with a number of different resources and organisations including Women’s Aid and Men’s Aid.

It provides clear guidance on the supports that are available, both internally and externally, to affected employees. The policy outlines a range of appropriate reasonable accommodations and supports, including adjustments to working arrangements and dedicated leave to support staff members who are experiencing domestic violence and abuse.

According to RCSI vice chancellor, Prof Cathal Kelly, RCSI is “committed to a culture of respect for all”.

“It is important that we raise awareness and understanding of the realities of domestic violence, the impact that this has on our friends and colleagues and how we can take positive steps to support them,” he said.

Women’s Aid will provide relevant training to support RCSI’s implementation of the policy.

Its launch was welcomed by the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Simon Harris.

“We are at a crucial point at this time where there is zero tolerance of domestic violence and abuse in Irish society. I want to thank everyone who worked so hard on this policy, a policy which I firmly believe will contribute to changed cultures and attitudes to all forms of violence and harassment in our tertiary education sector,” he commented.