Help for domestic violence sufferers

Date: 25 September 2009

Usdaw is launching a new leaflet to support women experiencing domestic violence to mark today’s International Day for Elimination of Violence against Women. Domestic violence is a problem which is much more likely to be faced by women than men.

The new leaflet aims to help women who are thinking of leaving an abusive or violent relationship to stay safe.

John Hannett, Usdaw General Secretary, said:

“We know that millions of women in the UK experience domestic violence and at least two a week lose their lives because of it. Union reps in particular can be a vital source of support for members experiencing domestic violence and it is right that we support women survivors and our reps by providing them with the right information and advice. This new leaflet forms part of our ongoing work to help ensure our members are safe both at work and in the wider community."

The leaflet sets out practical steps a woman might want to take to keep herself and her children safe if she is thinking of leaving the relationship.

The leaflet can also be downloaded from Usdaw’s website.

Notes to Editors:

• Contacts for newsdesks: Usdaw’s Media Officer, Cherry Hamilton, can be contacted on 0161 249 2469 or e-mail cherry.hamilton@usdaw.org.uk
• Usdaw (the Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers) is the UK’s fourth biggest trade union, with over 384,000 members. Most Usdaw members work in the retail sector, but the union also has many members in transport, distribution, food manufacturing, chemicals and other trades.
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