Wednesday January 21st 2026
East Lothian Council headquarters
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Liam Eunson
East Lothian Councillors have agreed a package of support for East Lothian Council employees experiencing domestic abuse and gender-based violence.
Elected members approved the local authority’s updated “Domestic Abuse and Gender Based Violence Policy” at a Cabinet meeting yesterday (20 January).
The policy includes provision for paid time off work to support those living with domestic abuse to attend appointments to access housing, solicitor and legal support, counselling and to work with agencies offering professional help.
The policy also outlines the practical measures that can be offered to support employees living with domestic abuse such as access to offices and other safe spaces and discrete ways to alert colleagues to domestic abuse. It applies to all employees regardless of gender.
East Lothian Council aims to raise awareness amongst its 5800 staff about domestic abuse and gender-based violence and offer guidance for employees and managers to spot signs and respond appropriately. Support will also be offered to perpetrators who wish to address their behaviours including through official programmes.
The updated policy has been developed to create a supportive working environment that allows all council employees to feel safe at work and when seeking help. It was created in consultation with staff and trade unions and in line with the Scottish Government’s Equally Safe Strategy and delivery plan to prevent and end violence against women and girls.
East Lothian Council’s Depute Leader Councillor Shamin Akhtar said:
“People living with domestic abuse or gender-based violence are often isolated by their abuser from the wider world as part of a campaign of control. Our workplaces and colleagues can provide vital support, safe spaces and means of communication. Being able to take time away from work during the day to attend appointments without arousing suspicion could make all the difference for someone trying to break free from abuse.
“Domestic abuse and gender-based violence should not be present in our modern society. Sadly though, it is a reality for too many people including here in East Lothian. I’m pleased that our council is playing our part to create a supportive environment that helps our employees to feel safe at work and when seeking help and advice.”
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