With October being Domestic Abuse Awareness Month and  the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence beginning on 25 November, it’s a reminder that domestic abuse affects every sector and walk of life.

Work can offer safety and respite. Recognising signs and referring colleagues to support can help them stay safe and in employment, supporting Women in Rail’s vision for women to thrive.

The Employers’ Initiative on Domestic Abuse (EIDA) brings together over 2,000 UK businesses to support employees and share best practice. We are pleased to see more rail companies taking action. One in three women and one in five men experience domestic abuse in their lifetimes, regardless of background or seniority.

The Support pillar of Women in Rail’s 2025–2027 Business Plan offers mentoring, training, career and development resources. For women experiencing domestic abuse, support can help keep their careers on track. Potential signs include:

• Repeated contact or unexpected visits from a current or former partner or family member; unexplained absences or changes in working hours
• Anxiety about working hours or going home; isolation, avoiding work events or money worries
• Unusual clothing or makeup changes; injuries with inconsistent or no explanation

You do not need to be an expert to help. Recognise potential signs, ask colleagues if anything is wrong, listen without judgement and know where to find support.

Some steps you can take:

• Would you know how to support a colleague? Check your company’s domestic abuse resources and available support.
• Encourage your company to join EIDA if it is not already a member. Free membership includes access to a host of resources and events: an employer guide, template domestic abuse policy, manager guidance, case studies, campaign materials, webinars and roundtables. Join here.
• Sign up to our newsletter, “The Tuesday Trio”, for regular updates on resources and events.
• HR professionals can sign our “HR Charter” for the same free access to resources and events as employer members.
• For further information you can contact: support@eida.org.uk

“Behind every organisation joining EIDA is an opportunity to make a difference to someone’s life. It’s encouraging to see more rail employers becoming members to helping colleagues affected by domestic abuse feel supported and know where to turn. For me it’s a real privilege to continue as an EIDA Ambassador and contribute to this important work across the rail industry.”

Rajinder Pryor, Women in Rail Trustee and EIDA Ambassador:

Do make a note in diaries: On 3 November 2026 in partnership with No More, EIDA is hosting the first Global Business Summit on Taking Action on Domestic Abuse, a free virtual event bringing together employers, advocates, experts, and business leaders from around the world to share perspectives on how employers can take effective action on domestic abuse.