Gender-based violence (GBV) is a phenomenon deeply rooted in gender inequality and continues to be one of the most notable human rights violations within all societies. Gender-based violence is violence directed against a person because of their gender. Both women and men experience gender-based violence but the majority of victims are women and girls. (European institute for gender equality, 2022).
Gender-based violence includes but is not limited to;
- Domestic abuse
- Rape and sexual assault
- Childhood sexual abuse
- Stalking and harassment
- Commercial sexual exploitation
- Human trafficking
- Harmful traditional practices
Being female is a key risk factor for gender-based violence. Factors such as age, financial dependence, poverty, disability, homelessness and insecure immigration status can heighten a women’s vulnerability to abuse or entrap them further in it.
NHS Lanarkshire’s GBV services offers domestic abuse advocacy, consultancy, training and operational advice to NHS Lanarkshire staff. As well as:
- specialist information and support to staff with experience of gender-based violence;
- specialist information and guidance for managers and other individuals.
Staff can self-refer and speak with an advocacy worker who will assess their circumstances, offer support, practical advice and explore ways to increase safety if appropriate.
Ann Hayne, gender-based violence manager, highlighted: “The majority of staff in NHS Lanarkshire are female, and live locally. Services for staff are therefore also services for local women and we welcome staff self-referrals. This can be accessed by contacting us directly, through your manager, HR or occupational health.”
Contact us
If you wish to confidentially discuss your own circumstances or as a manager, that of a member of staff please contact the gender-based violence team on 01698 753686 or email GBVServices@lanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk
