Every year on 10 December, NHS Domestic Violence Awareness Day serves as an important reminder that domestic abuse does not discriminate—that it affects thousands of people working within healthcare. While NHS staff dedicate their lives to caring for others, many are silently experiencing abuse behind closed doors. This awareness day aims to highlight the high prevalence of domestic abuse among NHS professionals and to urge all NHS employers to strengthen their policies, training, and support systems.
Domestic Abuse in the NHS Workforce: An Under-Recognised Crisis
Research shows that healthcare workers experience one of the highest rates of domestic abuse across all sectors. The pressures of shift work, emotional labour, and burnout can make it harder for victims to speak up or seek help. Many fears disclosure could affect their career, colleagues’ perceptions, or their ability to work safely.
Domestic abuse can include:
- Physical violence
- Emotional or psychological manipulation
- Financial control
- Coercive behaviour
- Sexual abuse
- Digital harassment or stalking
For NHS staff, these experiences can have a severe impact on mental health, job performance, and long-term wellbeing — making workplace support essential.
Domestic abuse has no place in anyone’s life — including those who spend their days caring for others.
What NHS Employers Should Have in Place
To support affected staff, NHS organisations are encouraged to strengthen:
✔ Clear Domestic Abuse Policies
Policies must define domestic abuse, outline support options, and explain exactly how staff can report concerns.
✔ Dedicated Support Leads
Domestic abuse champions, line managers, or trained leads should be available for confidential guidance.
✔ Workplace Adjustments
This might include flexible schedules, remote work options, or emergency leave for staff escaping abusive situations.
✔ Training for Managers and Team Leaders
Managers must be able to recognise warning signs, respond with sensitivity, and direct staff towards the right services.
✔ Links with Specialist Organisations
Partnering with domestic abuse services ensures staff can access professional help quickly and safely.
Help, support, and understanding can make all the difference.
Supporting Colleagues: What You Can Do
You don’t need to be an expert to support someone experiencing domestic abuse. Small actions can make a huge difference:
- Listen without judgement
- Validate their experience
- Encourage them to seek help
- Remind them that abuse is never their fault
- Know the support routes available at your workplace
Sometimes, just knowing someone believes them can be life changing.
If You Need Help
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, support is available:
- National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247
- Men’s Advice Line: 0808 801 0327
- NHS Staff Support Services (varies by trust)
- In an emergency, always call 999
You deserve to feel safe at home, at work, and everywhere in between.