New guidance to ensure domestic abuse victims can access safe social housing published

New guidance to ensure victims of domestic abuse can easily access safe, long-term accommodation has been published.

The guidance, which is subject to a 10-week consultation, makes it clear that local authorities should treat victims of domestic abuse as a priority for social housing.

Domestic abuse victims currently occupy safe accommodation such as a refuge.

The guidance also makes clear that those victims who have fled to refuges in other parts of the country should not be disadvantaged in accessing social housing.

In addition, local authorities are being encouraged to use their existing powers to help victims of domestic abuse to return safely in their own home without their abuser, if wished.

The guidance comes during Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and is one of a number of measures the government has introduced to ensure that those who have to flee their homes due to violence have the specialist support they need to rebuild their lives.

The government will shortly be introducing a new landmark Domestic Violence and Abuse Bill to protect and support victims, recognise the life-long impact domestic abuse has on children and make sure agencies respond effectively to domestic abuse.

The guidance published will build on and clarify existing guidelines which encourage local authorities to make exceptions to the residency tests and give appropriate priority to the most vulnerable in our society.

Lord Bourne, Communities Minister, said: “Domestic abuse is a devastating crime with complex challenges that extend far beyond the boundaries of local authorities.

“That’s why we’re committed to providing local authorities with the robust guidance they need to improve victims’ access to long-term and secure housing they need to rebuild their lives.”