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SEPA strengthen commitment to equality with new Domestic Abuse and Gender-Based violence policy

To ensure effective implementation, SEPA have partnered with Unison and Scottish Women's Aid to provide comprehensive training to colleagues from across the organisation in (initially) eight sessions.

The new policy is designed to ensure that all employees, regardless of gender, are protected and supported - and reinforces SEPA’s zero-tolerance approach to any form of violence and discrimination. Further training opportunities will be rolled out across the rest of the Agency to provide all staff with the necessary tools and knowledge to recognise the signs of domestic abuse and gender-based violence, understand its roots and effectively support affected colleagues.

Domestic abuse and gender-based violence remains a significant issue in Scotland. According to recent research around one in three women and girls globally will experience some form of gender-based violence in their lifetime.

Scottish Women’s Aid CEO Dr Marsha Scott said:

“Given the high rates of domestic abuse cases across Scotland, public and private bodies must see domestic abuse informed policy and response as a priority.

“We’re pleased that SEPA reached out to collaborate with us as subject matter experts to help educate their workforce. We hope that other organisations will follow suit so that workforces across Scotland will be equipped to respond appropriately and direct those affected by domestic abuse to effective support services.”

SEPA’s Chief Officer; People, Workspaces and Development Kirsty Paterson, said:

"Domestic abuse and gender-based violence has no place in our society. This Policy and the training will be instrumental in equipping our organisation with the knowledge and confidence to support colleagues affected by domestic abuse and gender-based violence.

“Collective action is required to change harmful cultural behaviours that perpetuate gender-based violence. Our policy and training will ensure SEPA remains a safe and inclusive environment for all our staff, and we hope it encourages other organisations to help build a more equitable society for all Scots.

"We are extremely grateful for the expertise and insights shared by Scottish Women’s Aid, which have laid a strong foundation for the launch of our new policy, building on our progression as an inclusive employer and helping demonstrate SEPA’s values.”

Gillian Kirkwood, SEPA UNISON Co-Woman's Officer, said:

“As SEPA's trade union partner, Unison was delighted to work in partnership on this progressive people policy. Employers like SEPA can play a positive role in the wellbeing of their colleagues. We recognise the impact of this issue on our society and welcome not only this important policy, but the training and support for colleagues on domestic abuse and gender-based violence.”

SEPA’s Domestic Abuse and Gender-Based Violence Policy follows the successful introduction of SEPA's Menopause and Periods Policy and Transgender Equality Policy demonstrating the Agency’s commitment to maintaining an inclusive and supportive work environment.

Notes to editors

• Read the Scottish Social Attitudes Survey 2019 on the Scottish Government website for more information on attitudes to violence against women.
• Policy aims: SEPA are committed to:
  • Promoting equality, diversity and good relations in everything it does – as a community leader, as a provider and commissioner of services, and as an employer.
  • Ensuring employees from groups in society that are often subject to discrimination are empowered to speak up.
  • Challenging prejudice, discrimination, harassment and abuse and support everyone to reach their potential.
  • Supporting colleagues who are experiencing gender-based violence.
  • Ensuring our workplaces are places of safety.
  • Promoting a culture of respect that works towards breaking down the stigma around. gender-based violence and encourage those affected to seek support.
  • Providing training resources for colleagues to help understand domestic abuse.
  • Offering confidential support through our Employee Assistance Programme.