FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Lisa Finaldi
Family Forward NC | North Carolina Early Childhood Foundation
lfinaldi@buildthefoundation.org | (919) 895-3290 x 702
RALEIGH, N.C., October 9, 2025 — October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and the North Carolina Early Childhood Foundation (NCECF), through its Family Forward NC® initiative, has published a new feature exploring the growing importance of safe leave—a workplace policy that allows survivors of domestic or sexual violence, or their family members, to take time off for essential needs without fear of job loss or forced disclosure.
The story features insights from Molly McCambridge, Director of Prevention and Abuse Intervention at the North Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCCADV), who describes safe leave as “absolutely effective” in helping survivors heal and remain employed.
“The workplace is a huge area where the impacts of domestic violence show up,” McCambridge said. “Employers can create a protective environment for survivors. Having a leave option that doesn’t require proof or disclosure changes lives and helps survivors access resources and heal.”
The feature comes amid sobering statistics: North Carolina reported 155 domestic violence–related homicides in 2024, the highest number since 2008. Nearly 35% of women and 30% of men in the state have experienced intimate partner violence, sexual violence, or stalking.
Safe leave policies, though still uncommon, are emerging as a practical and compassionate tool to support employees while promoting stability, safety, and retention. Advocates note that such policies are especially important for working parents, who may need time off to manage child-related appointments, court hearings, or trauma support services.
The full story, “Safe Leave: The Policy You’ve Probably Never Heard Of—But Every Workplace Needs, is available now on the Family Forward NC website.
About Family Forward NC
Family Forward NC® is an initiative of the North Carolina Early Childhood Foundation that works with employers to increase access to research-based, family-friendly workplace practices that improve health and well-being for children and families, and strengthen businesses and the economy. Learn more: visit www.familyforwardnc.com
About The North Carolina Early Education Foundation (NCECF)
NCECF is leading change in the health and education systems that build a child’s foundation to thrive. Our focus is on ensuring that all children, from birth through third grade, have the support they need. We envision a North Carolina where everyone supports early childhood policies that help each child reach their full potential. Learn more: visit https://buildthefoundation.org/