Domestic violence is often referred to as an ‘invisible crime’. For the families of the two women killed each week by their partners or ex-partners, however, it is far from invisible. As the first guidance for schools on domestic violence issued by the National Union of Teachers, this document has great significance.

Domestic violence is often referred to as an ‘invisible crime’. For the families of the two women killed each week by their partners or ex-partners, however, it is far from invisible. As the first guidance for schools on domestic violence issued by the National Union of Teachers, this document has great significance.

The consequences of domestic violence are often devastating and long term, affecting the physical health and mental well being of women and girls. At the same time, its ripple effects compromise the social development of children in the household; the family as a unit; the communities in which they live; and, society as a whole.

The NUT is committed to working for equality in schools and within education more broadly. This guidance sets out the support that NUT school representatives and division secretaries can give NUT members and how the issue of domestic violence can be raised in the workplace.

Domestic violence may occur behind closed doors but everyone has a part to play in its eradication. This document gives guidance on how the curriculum can be used to raise the importance of the issue and demonstrate to young people that violence should not be tolerated.

Steve Sinnott, General Secretary