18 March 2021

Our Chief Executive, Claire Murdoch shared the following with all CNWL staff on Tuesday 16 March 2021 in the aftermath of the Sarah Everard killing.

To all staff from Claire Murdoch

Sarah Everard

I’m writing in the aftermath of the awful killing of Sarah Everard. This brutal act caused deep revulsion but soon became a call to action which has found a strong echo across society, especially from women but also from men.

And let’s not lose sight of the fact that many women are more likely to be attacked and abused by someone they know than by a stranger.  

On International Women’s day last week, Jess Phillips MP read out the names of all of the women and girls killed over the previous 12 months where a man had been convicted or charged as the main perpetrator – there were 118 deaths in total.  

Many people – particularly women – feel anxious and sometimes fearful on the streets and on public transport, or have experienced aggressive, intimidating behaviours, and on occasion, violence. 

All staff are horrified by the circumstances of Sarah’s death and many will want to add their voice to the call for greater public safety, something the NHS and CNWL supports.

Because this affects staff here at CNWL too; our workforce is 78% female.

CNWL – like the whole NHS - operates 24/7, so there are many staff who come to work, or finish a shift, at unsocial hours or have to travel to work early or late, and who sometimes work alone; being safe in public areas is a worry for our staff and it shouldn’t be.

I look forward to seeing action from the Government and the police; the government's public consultation - Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls  - has been reopened until 26 March, to further collect views from those with lived experience of, or views on, violence against women and girls. It is open to all genders. Please have your say and add your concerns here.

None of us should tolerate any kind of violence or abuse towards women – it is a crime, no matter who commits it or where it happens. If it affects you, don’t be afraid to get help; talk to your manager, safeguarding lead, or a colleague.

I also know you look out for each other too. 

For some individuals these events may stir up issues from the past, so please remember we’re here to support you – please speak to your manager, to People at Work or Keeping Well; the Women’s Staff Network is here as well if you want to talk to someone, share experiences, or seek advice.

We have good advice to look at and support to call on.

The legal process will take its course for Sarah, but the spotlight is now on making real change, around domestic violence and public safety, which is a good thing for everybody.

Take care.

Claire