“Domestic abuse is a national emergency” declared Gloucester MP Alex McIntyre as he introduced the Domestic Abuse (Safe Leave) Bill in the House of Commons earlier this month on Tuesday 7th January. The Bill proposes an entitlement to paid safe leave for victims of domestic abuse. In an impassioned motion to the House, McIntyre emphasised that anyone can experience domestic abuse, which is a burgeoning problem throughout this country.

Sexual harassment can happen to men and women. However, like domestic abuse, sexual harassment is gendered: disproportionately perpetrated by men and disproportionately affecting women. Sexual harassment is part of a continuum with other forms of abuse, with pervasive unhealthy workplace cultures often highlighting broader issues of gender inequality and sexism.

DAWS welcomes the spotlight shone on Harrods and their previous owner Mohammed Al Fayed last night on the BBC. BBC Two - Al Fayed: Predator at Harrods Al Fayed perpetrated abuse in plain sight over decades and acted with impunity due to his power and money. He was not held to account and those he harassed, assaulted and abused were subdued and failed by those who should have been protecting them. He is not the first and will not be the last.