Up to 10 days paid leave will be offered

South Ayrshire Council has become the first in Europe to give safe leave to Up to employees who are victims of abuse.

In a move applauded by charities, up to 10 days paid leave will be offered as part of the new policy, allowing staff time and space to seek support.

Those suffering domestic abuse can find that work exacerbates their stress and anxiety as they struggle to get time off for medical appointments, counselling or attend legal proceedings.

Councillors Laura Brenna-Whitefield and Brian McGinley first proposed the idea before it was unanimously supported by all 28 councillors in December last year.

It follows similar domestic abuse legislation in New Zealand, Philippines, Canada and Australia.

Councillor Peter Henderson said: "Giving abused employees access to up to 10 days' safe leave, where they can take the time off they need to access help and support without the worry of it affecting their finances or using up their annual leave, will make a real and lasting difference that could help change lives forever.

"And just by making that support available, it could help give employees the confidence to ask for help and take the first steps towards a safer life for them and their families.

"Domestic abuse will never be tolerated in South Ayrshire but, sadly, we know it happens, and we want to ensure that - when it affects our employees - we do all we can to support them."

Hazel Bingham, manager of South Ayrshire Women's Aid, welcomed the policy.

"Having a compassionate and supportive employer that allows people the time they need to attend vital appointments, access help and advice, and do what they need to do means they don't need to worry about using up annual leave or going off sick," she said.

"It's essential that council employees know they will be fully supported when they approach their manager or colleagues about their situation and making use of safe leave."