Two years after legislation creating domestic violence (DV) leave came into effect, the Department of Education and Youth has released a policy document designed to support schools and Education and Training Boards (ETBs) when situations arise where school staff may be experiencing domestic violence and abuse.  

Under the terms of the Work Life Balance and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2023, all employees have a statutory entitlement to domestic violence leave, and employers are recommended to have a domestic violence policy in place. The Department is advising schools and ETBs to formally adopt this document as their own policy. 

The new policy clearly explains what constitutes abuse, gives guidance for school management and staff on how to appropriately respond when colleagues are facing domestic violence, and lists resources available for staff. It underlines the importance of confidentiality, non-discrimination and sensitivity. There is also a safety plan template in an appendix to the document. 

Head of the Education division Andy Pike underlined the importance of such policies in creating safe and supportive workplaces. He said: “We were pleased to contribute to the development of this policy at the SNA Industrial Relations forum.”  

“It’s a valuable document that will provide SNAs, and all school staff, with a clear guide to the legislation and enable schools and ETBs to ensure they support colleagues who may be in vulnerable and dangerous situations.” 

Paid domestic violence leave is currently available for five days, prior notice does not need to be given, and it can be taken where the employee is experiencing domestic violence, including coercive control, or where they are supporting their spouse, partner, or child who is the victim.  

It was achieved following extensive campaigning by survivors, trade unions and civil society organisations. Fórsa’s campaign was spearheaded by delegates who brought motions on this issue to national conference in 2022, and by the union’s Equality Committee. The union continues to advocate and collectively bargain for the provision of ten days domestic violence leave. 

You can read the full policy here.   

The provisions for Domestic Violence Leave for SNAs are set out in Department of Education Circular 0060/23, which you can access here. 

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