Members of the cabinet heard at their meeting that there were 792 cases of domestic abuse reported in East Lothian last year.

In a report Rebecca Spillane, equalities officer, stressed: "These figures show that this is still an issue affecting an unacceptably high number of families in East Lothian."

She explained that the council highlighted the issue as core priority of the Gender Equality Scheme, written in 2007.

One of the actions identified was a need to develop a workplace policy to provide a clear statement on domestic abuse as a workplace issue.

She said: "East Lothian Council recognises that domestic abuse is likely to have an impact on workplace issues as it can negatively affect employee performance and morale.

Workforce

"Although domestic abuse can be experienced by both men and women and amongst same sex couples, research shows that more women experience domestic abuse.

"Recognising that 71 per cent of the council's workforce are female, this is likely to be a real issue for some employees.

"East Lothian Council is committed to heightening awareness of domestic abuse and provide guidance for employees and management to address the occurrence of domestic abuse and its effects on the workplace."

The policy aims to create a working environment that allows people to feel safe when seeking the necessary help and advice as well as outlining a number of ways to support employees who may be experiencing domestic abuse. It will suggest how to manage circumstances where the abuser is employed in the same workplace as the victim.

Reflection

Another aim to to ensure equal treatment for workers who are domestic abuse victims.

Councillor Ruth Currie welcomed the policy, saying it was a "sad reflection" on society that some people found themselves abused in so many ways.

Superintendent Phil O'Kane, who is based at Haddington Police Station, supported the policy saying it was "very positive."

He told councillors: "This reinforces our joint working around domestic abuse to try and stamp it out and reduce it."