Tesco introduces paid ‘safe leave’ for domestic abuse victims

Tesco has introduced guaranteed paid leave for colleagues experiencing domestic abuse, giving them time to access support, secure their safety and rebuild their lives.

Developed in partnership with the Usdaw union, the policy offers colleagues who disclose domestic abuse three days, or 21 hours, of paid “safe leave”.

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Tesco said the leave can be taken flexibly for activities such as attending court hearings, arranging emergency accommodation, changing locks, securing childcare or separating finances.

The retailer said the policy aims to remove a practical barrier facing victims and survivors, so that colleagues do not have to choose between earning a living and protecting themselves and their families.

Tesco has also trained its managers to spot the signs of domestic abuse, respond to and support affected colleagues, and signpost them to specialist services.

The policy was also developed with guidance from the Employers’ Initiative on Domestic Abuse (EIDA), a free-to-join network of more than 2,000 UK employers committed to taking effective action on domestic abuse.

The move forms part of Tesco’s wider approach to colleague wellbeing. All UK colleagues have access to confidential counselling, legal and financial advice, mental health support and the Peoplesafe personal safety app.

Emma Taylor, chief people officer at Tesco, said: “Domestic abuse is one of the most devastating issues affecting our society today, and its impact does not stop when somebody reaches their workplace.

“For someone experiencing abuse, everyday tasks like attending a court hearing, finding a new place to live or putting new financial arrangements in place can be critical steps towards safety and independence.

“As the UK’s largest private-sector employer, we believe we have a responsibility to support colleagues in what are likely to be some of the most challenging moments in their lives. That’s why we’re introducing guaranteed Safe Leave, ensuring colleagues can access practical support and the time they need without worrying about taking unpaid leave or explaining deeply personal circumstances.

“We’re proud to be taking this step and want it to help drive wider action from employers across the UK. No one should have to choose between their job and their safety.”

Daniel Adams , Usdaw national officer, said:  “Usdaw has long campaigned for support at work for survivors of domestic abuse and we are pleased to have successfully negotiated this new policy with Tesco. Domestic abuse often has an impact on the working lives of survivors, and it is important that employers understand this and the actions they can take to support and protect them.”

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