Introducing ‘safe leave’ for domestic abuse victims would ‘save lives’ – MP

Giving domestic abuse survivors access to two weeks’ paid time off work would “save lives”, MPs have heard.

Labour’s Alex McIntyre has proposed creating “safe leave” to help people address issues related to the abuse they have suffered, including finding a place of safety and dealing with health and legal issues.

MPs allowed Mr McIntyre to introduce his Domestic Abuse (Safe Leave) Bill to the House of Commons on Tuesday for further consideration.

Mr McIntyre (pictured), the MP for Gloucester, said: “The demands on survivors’ time are overwhelming. Many are forced to take holiday to give evidence against their abusers in court.

“Many take time off sick only to fall foul of their employers for having too much sickness absence. Some take the impossible decision that they simply can’t afford to leave and remain in unsafe situations, continuing the cycle of violence.

“Two weeks’ paid safe leave would give victims and survivors the time they need to seek help, to find the resources they need to escape their abuser and to start the long process of healing.

“Let me be clear: victims of abuse should never have to choose between their safety or their wages.”

Mr McIntyre added: “Safe leave would save lives.

“Safe leave would start conversations in workplaces in my city of Gloucester that will help survivors and victims of domestic abuse get to safety, get the support they need and get back on their feet.

“Imagine living in a society where victims and survivors of domestic abuse feel safe and empowered to seek support at work.”

Mr McIntyre also highlighted the Government’s commitment to halve violence against women and girls over the next decade.

Private members’ bills (PMBs) tabled by backbench MPs face a battle to become law due to a lack of parliamentary time.

Mr McIntyre has held talks with ministers about the Government’s ongoing work and asked for his Bill to receive a second reading on June 20.

Treasury minister Darren Jones, speaking as he opened the next debate, commended Mr McIntyre for his “moving” Bill.

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