New plans announced by the Government today (Tuesdau) will make it easier for survivors of domestic abuse to move away from their perpetrators.
As part of the announcement, there’ll be additional funding to help the Isle of Wight council support victims of domestic abuse on the Isle of Wight.
Removing Local Connection Tests
A consultation launched today will consider removing Local Connection Tests for abuse victims, which can stop victims from applying for social housing if they do not have a connection to a local area.
This can often mean victims are forced to live in the same communities as their abuser and are denied a fresh start in a new town.
Joint tenancies
A second consultation will consider whether and how to change current rules that make it difficult for victims to remove their perpetrators from joint tenancies, which can mean victims either feel forced to stay in their home or are at risk of being made homeless by their abuser.
The government will call on people with experience of domestic abuse and those working in the sector to share their views.
£300,000 un-ringfenced funding
The Isle of Wight Council will receive nearly £300,000 of the overall funding pot which will arrive as an un-ringfenced grant, meaning the council will be responsible for making decisions on how the funding is spent to benefit those in need.
In December 2021, the Isle of Wight council set out how they intend to protect victims of domestic abuse and their children.
Cabinet lead for adult social care, Cllr Karl Love, said at the time,
“These plans enable specialist support for victims in safe accommodation that helps support their needs.
“Our council priority is to make sure vulnerable people are protected from harm and have the chance to rebuild their lives in a safe community and in a place they call home.
“Domestic abuse in all forms is unacceptable and these plans will send the message that we will make sure victims have the support they need and a place a of safety.”
Seely: These vile crimes have a long-term impact on victims
In light of today’s funding, Isle of Wight Conservative MP, Bob Seely, said,
“This funding is very welcome and will help to support victims of these crimes here on the Isle of Wight.
“These are vile crimes that have a long-term impact on victims.”
Jacobs: Transformative in tackling the postcode lottery
Nicole Jacobs, Domestic Abuse Commissioner for England and Wales said,
“For victims and survivors of domestic abuse, home is often the most dangerous place. I welcome the confirmation of £125 million to enable local authorities in England to meet their duties to provide support in safe accommodation for victims and survivors of domestic abuse. The right support in a safe environment is integral to rebuilding your life after fleeing domestic abuse and this duty will be transformative in tackling the postcode lottery of accommodation-based support for victims and survivors.
“I am also pleased that the department is opening consultations on the impacts of joint tenancies on victims of domestic abuse and on local connection requirements for social housing for victims of domestic abuse. It is vital that victims and survivors can access safe housing regardless of their tenure type. That means staying safely in their own home if they want to, as well as being able to access housing in a new area if they are no longer safe where they live.
“I look forward to seeing the outcome of these consultations and welcome the steps the department is taking to ensure victims and survivors can access the housing they need after being subject to domestic abuse.”
Read the full detail on the proposals on the Government Website.
Image: Nick Fewings under CC BY 2.0
