On the occasion of the UN International Day on the Elimination of Violence against Women (25th November), Congress has launched a revised set of guidelines for trade unions in order to assist women at work who are experiencing domestic violence. Joint Chair of the Congress Womens Committee, Clare Tracy stated:

"The workplace can play a key role on raising awareness about domestic abuse. We know for many women work is a place of safety where they may confide in others about their experiences and where they can access help"

Congress and its affiliates have been campaigning over the last few years to ensure that domestic abuse is seen as an issue that unions can - and - should be doing something about for women who are affected by violence at home. Joint Chair of the Womens Committee, Taryn Trainor added: "work too is likely to suffer unless women get the support they need. Congress urges employers to cooperate with unions in developing a common approach to domestic abuse in the workplace."

It is intended that this Guide be used in a practical way to give information, ideas and contacts to union representatives in the workplace and to enable them to give consistent and effective assistance to those suffering domestic abuse. Please visit Womens Aid site for more information on the 16 day campaign, Breaking the Silence around domestic violence.

The guidelines are one of many trade union initiatives around the world to say "no to violence against women and girls" and to mobilize against the impunity of that violence around the world. These activities are taking place in the context of the UN Secretary-General's campaign 'UNiTE to End Violence against Women' and the Global Unions Campaign 'Decent Work, Decent Life for Women'. "Violence against women at work is a serious problem, just as it is in society generally. Trade unions are campaigning on both fronts, to get rid of it in the workplace and in the community," said ITUC General Secretary Guy Ryder, "Inequality and pervasive discrimination against women and girls are at the core of the problem, providing an environment where violence is tolerated or even encouraged."

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