The City of London Corporation has become a member of the Employers’ Initiative on Domestic Abuse (EIDA) Beacon programme, joining a network of UK employers who are leading culture change in the workplace to tackle domestic abuse.
As an EIDA Beacon member the City Corporation will:
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Work closely with EIDA to further enhance its internal domestic abuse policies and procedures, and employee access to information and support services
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Increase awareness and education among the City Corporation’s employees of how to identify and tackle domestic abuse
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Encourage businesses and employers in the Square Mile to take more action on domestic abuse
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Provide a financial contribution to support EIDA’s wider work
The City Corporation’s commitment aligns with the start of the international 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, which runs from November 25 to December 10.
The campaign encourages awareness and action against violence against women and girls.
Throughout the 16 Days of Activism, the City Corporation, alongside Tower Hamlets Council and Hackney Council, will continue its Don’t Cross the Line campaign which targets perpetrators of harassment and misogyny in the nighttime economy. The campaign highlights unacceptable behaviours that are not tolerated.
Chief Executive of the Employers’ Initiative on Domestic Abuse, Susan Bright said: “We are delighted to welcome the City of London Corporation as an EIDA Beacon. They will be leading the way for other employers looking to tackle domestic abuse, both in the City and across the UK. We are very encouraged by the steps they have taken to raise awareness of domestic abuse within the City of London, and we look forward to working closely with them on their own domestic abuse workplace response.”
City of London Corporation Policy Chairman, Chris Hayward, said: “By signing up to the EIDA Beacon programme we are sending a powerful message: that we will do everything in our power to ensure the wellbeing of our staff. Becoming a Beacon member is a positive step forward. No one, in any circumstances, should have to live in fear or face violence. As a Beacon member, we are dedicated to raising awareness about domestic abuse, ensuring our workforce has access to the right support, and providing resources for anyone impacted.”
Chair of the City of London Police Authority Board, Tijs Broeke, said:“As chair of the City of London Police Authority Board, I am committed to keeping our Square Mile safe for all those that live, work or visit. Everyone needs to play their part to tackle and prevent violence in the City – and as a Beacon member the City Corporation is setting an example for others in taking action against domestic abuse.”
Earlier this year Guildhall, the City Corporation’s headquarters, was recognised as a Safe Haven.
Along with 40 other Safe Havens across the Square Mile, Guildhall offers people at risk a safe place for support on their onward journey when out and about.
Safe Havens are a UK network of businesses and other organisations who help any member of the public who feels unsafe, harassed, or in a vulnerable situation.
City Corporation staff at Guildhall have undergone specialist training to help people by providing a friendly face and reassurance. They can call the police, family, or friends, or simply give directions or public transport information.
A list of Safe Havens in the Square Mile can be found on the City Corporation’s website and on the Safe Havens app for Apple and Android phones.
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