Victims of domestic violence now have more paid leave.

As of April 1, it has gone up to five days, instead of three, allowing more time to get medical, legal and social support and not lose any income.

Minister Nolan Young says nobody should have to choose between their safety and their pay cheque.

“Expanding paid leave gives Nova Scotians experiencing domestic violence more time and support to get help and rebuild their lives,” says Young.

If you have been in a job for at least three months, you get up to 16 consecutive weeks of leave.

In addition to that, ten more days can be taken whenever needed.

This change follows consultations with community partners, including unions, employers and advocacy groups.

Intimate partner violence was declared an epidemic in Nova Scotia in 2024.

This change follows consultations with community partners like unions, employers and advocacy groups as well as recommendations from the Mass Casualty Commission, the Desmond Fatality Inquiry and the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.