The move by the supermarket has been praised by union officials
Tesco Express supermarket store on Whitechapel High Street on 29th May 2026 in London in London, United Kingdom. (photo by Mike Kemp/In Pictures via Getty Images)
Tesco has announced a major new rule for workers. The UK supermarket is rolling out ‘Safe Leave’ – a new policy that has been praised by unions.
The policy will give guaranteed paid leave to colleagues experiencing domestic abuse. The supermarket and its largest recognised union Usdaw say those who disclose the issue will get three days or 21 hours of time off called Safe Leave.
They say it can be used for attending court hearings, arranging emergency accommodation, changing locks, separating finances and securing childcare. Tesco says it’s introducing the support to ‘reflect its belief that employers have an important role in supporting people experiencing domestic abuse’.
The policy was announced this month and has been issued with reassurance that managers have been trained to spot the signs of domestic abuse and support victims. Victims and survivors won’t be asked to provide formal evidence or relive traumatic experiences
The supermarket giant said the policy aims to ensure colleagues don’t ‘choose between earning a living and taking steps to protect themselves. Tesco is already said to provide access to confidential counselling, legal and financial advice and mental health support to all its 3,000 UK workers.
Emma Taylor, chief people officer at Tesco, said: “Domestic abuse is one of the most devastating issues affecting our society today and its impact does not stop when somebody reaches their workplace. For someone experiencing abuse, everyday tasks like attending a court hearing, finding a new place to live or putting new financial arrangements in place can be critical steps towards safety and independence.
“As the UK’s largest private-sector employer, we believe we have a responsibility to support colleagues in what are likely to be some of the most challenging moments in their lives. That’s why we are introducing guaranteed Safe Leave, ensuring colleagues can access practical support and the time they need without worrying about taking unpaid leave or explaining deeply personal circumstances.
“We’re proud to be taking this step and want it to help drive wider action from employers across the UK. Nobody should have to choose between their job and their safety.”
The announcement comes during Domestic Abuse Awareness Month that aims to raise awareness of the issue and supports victims and survivors around the world. Tesco says its announcement is a result of discussions with partner Usdaw on how employers can provide practical support to colleagues affected by domestic abuse.
Daniel Adams, Usdaw national officer, said: Usdaw has long campaigned for support at work for survivors of domestic abuse and we are pleased to have successfully negotiated this new policy with Tesco. Domestic abuse often has an impact on the working lives of survivors and it’s important that employers understand this and the actions they can take to support and protect them.”
Find out more on the policy here.
