Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, the largest health and social care organisation in Northern Ireland, has signed up to a workplace programme delivered by Nexus NI aimed at ending violence against women and girls.

The programme, called the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Take a Pledge, asks organisations across Northern Ireland to take action to prevent violence, support those affected, and promote a culture where abuse is not tolerated. It is supported by the Executive Office's Change Fund as part of the regional strategy.

One in three women in Northern Ireland have experienced sexual harassment at work, and 30 women have been murdered in the region since 2020.

Through the pledge, the Trust has committed to providing a safe, supportive and inclusive working environment for staff affected by or at risk of abuse, and to providing a supportive service to anyone affected by abuse when accessing health and social care.

Chief Executive Jennifer Welsh said staff have a responsibility to look after each other and to call out behaviour that is abusive or harmful, particularly towards women and girls. She said the Trust is committed to building a safer and more respectful future.

Chair Stuart Elborn said the Trust Board recently welcomed Nexus to a board meeting to discuss the prevalence of violence, its impact on victims and survivors, and the requirements of the pledge. He said the Trust is committed to taking all necessary actions.

The Trust already has trained domestic abuse support staff who can advise on practical adjustments or give emotional support. It recognises that women and girls are targeted more than men, though domestic and sexual abuse can happen to anyone.

The Trust is also applying the Safe Leave Act NI ahead of legislation. The act allows employees a minimum of 10 days paid leave per year for activities connected to domestic abuse, including legal appointments, relocation and support services. It has not yet been enacted in Northern Ireland.

The Trust has launched its first network of 33 trained Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Champions. Each champion acts as a safe person for colleagues to approach with concerns, provides support to colleagues who disclose abuse, and promotes a positive culture.