3 Point Plan for Women’s Welfare

This contractor implemented a 3 Point Plan to support women’s wellbeing at work. This plan focused on domestic violence, period dignity and self-defence to create a safer environment both in and out of the workplace. This is especially poignant as domestic abuse reports significantly rose during lockdown & in 2020 it was reported that 55% of women were sexually harassed on the tube. Additionally, the devastating murder of Sarah Everard highlights the importance of self-defence and women’s safety.

1. Poster Campaign for Domestic Violence – In all project office bathrooms posters are placed with contact details for those experiencing domestic abuse and how to seek help through specific hand signs during Teams meetings if they are unable to call. This also helps others recognise signs of abuse and how to advocate for their colleagues.

2. Period Dignity – The contractor sponsored sanitary protection products to be put in all female bathrooms in their offices and on site with an ‘honesty box’ system whereby anybody that uses a product replaces it themselves. This system has ensured that all women can have period dignity with minimum anxiety or disruption. Hand cream was also provided in all women’s bathrooms to promote relaxation and moisturise skin.

3. Online Self Defence Class – The final part of the 3-point plan was a self-defence class delivered via Teams for all women on the project. By empowering women with the knowledge to protect themselves it has improved confidence and a sense of safety when returning to commuting. This course was recorded and distributed so all women unable to join the call were able to access the information and learn the techniques.