Senior business leaders from Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon attended an information and engagement session in The Palace Building, Armagh today (Tuesday 05 September) as they join forces to help prevent and protect more people from domestic abuse.
Supported by Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon (ABC) Borough Council, the awareness raising initiative was delivered by Armagh and Down Women’s Aid as part of their 40th anniversary year of celebrations.
Centred on empowering local businesses to address domestic abuse, the event highlighted the stark reality of this crime within the ABC borough and its impact on individuals who may be part of their workforce, visible through a deterioration in performance, increased or unexplained absenteeism.
Speaking at the event, Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon, Alderman Margaret Tinsley said:
“Tackling domestic abuse and violence in our borough remains a top priority for council, which is why we are proud to support the Women’s Aid Armagh Down Employer Event.
“Employers can play a huge role in helping those affected by domestic abuse, and through the information and knowledge shared at today’s engagement session, we hope to help local organisations increase their understanding of this crime and equip them with the tools needed to better support their workforce.
“As an organisation, council continues to work alongside key agency partners to deliver and support a range of initiatives, services and campaigns aimed at raising awareness of matters such as domestic abuse, violence, and stalking, as well as highlighting the help that is always available.
“PSNI statistics show that ABC Council area has the second highest level of domestic abuse crime in Northern Ireland, which brings into sharp focus the need for everyone and every organisation to play their part in helping all residents live their lives free from fear and abuse.”
Through guest speakers and a panel discussion, the event also emphasised how Women’s Aid in Armagh and Down can help local organisations educate staff – male or female – about domestic abuse as well as implement safe processes and guidance to support and protect their workforce from this critical matter.
Eileen Murphy, CEO of Women’s Aid Armagh Down said:
“Thank you to Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council for their support in hosting this important event. It is great to open the conversation with businesses in the borough about actions they can take in the workplace in relation to domestic abuse. We would encourage any business that wishes to find out more or partner with us to contact Women’s Aid Armagh Down at our Portadown, Armagh or Newry Resource Centres.”
To find out more about this event or learn how your business can play its part in tackling domestic abuse within the ABC borough, contact Women’s Aid Armagh Down on:
To get help and support for domestic abuse, you can contact the 24-hour Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline on:
