Domestic Abuse Policy

We recognise that domestic abuse disproportionately affects women and girls and is mostly perpetrated by men. However, anyone of any gender, sexuality or age can experience or perpetrate domestic abuse.

Domestic abuse can be associated with additional needs, such as diagnosed or undiagnosed mental health conditions and use of drugs and/or alcohol. While higher levels of reported domestic abuse may be associated with areas experiencing deprivation, it is important to recognise that domestic abuse can occur within any household or community, and these factors may not be present in every case.

Migrant women are more vulnerable to domestic abuse. Some migrant women will be dependent on their abuser for their immigration status - for example if they are on a spousal or partner visa. Research shows that having insecure immigration status is used as a tool of domestic abuse. 

Because of the No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF) condition on most visas in the UK, people experiencing domestic abuse have limited options in accessing support. The NRPF condition makes people more vulnerable to domestic abuse. 

People who have no recourse to public funds cannot access homelessness assistance and will not be able to access a refuge which requires income from housing benefit.

Specialist options are available for migrant victims of domestic violence. The Migrant Victims of Domestic Abuse Concession (MVDAC) provides a route for some victims to access financial support, a safe refuge and a route to resolving their immigration status. Social Services can provide interim accommodation to victims with children under Section 17 of the Children Act 1989, and to adults with care needs under the Care Act 2014. However, a referral to social services for assessment will be required.

Those who are ineligible for Local Authority support and MVDAC can access support from the VCSE, including the No Recourse Fund from Southall Black Sisters.