This summary provides an overview of our full Domestic Abuse Policy.
Purpose
- Sets out how housing services will recognise, respond to and tackle domestic abuse
- Supports victims and survivors to remain safe and prevent homelessness wherever possible
- Explains how we will work with partners and hold perpetrators accountable for their behaviour
Key principles
- We have zero tolerance for domestic abuse
- Victims and survivors will be listened to, believed and supported
- Safety is our highest priority
- We will work with specialist agencies to provide the right support
Objectives
- Help victims and survivors remain safely in their homes where appropriate
- Provide support to access alternative accommodation when needed
- Reduce the risk of repeat abuse and homelessness
- Support children affected by domestic abuse and meet safeguarding responsibilities
Measuring success
- Victims and survivors receive timely support and intervention
- Domestic abuse reports are responded to promptly
- Appropriate referrals are made to support services and partner agencies
- Victims and survivors are helped to remain safe and avoid homelessness wherever possible
What you can expect from us
- We will contact victims and survivors in council tenancies within 24 hours of a report being made
- We will carry out a risk assessment and tailor support to your circumstances
- We will discuss referrals to specialist services and partner agencies with your consent where appropriate
- We will treat information confidentially unless there is a safeguarding or legal requirement to share it
Other information you should know
- Domestic abuse can include physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, financial and coercive or controlling behaviour
- Children are recognised as victims and survivors in their own right
- Security measures may be available to help victims and survivors remain safely in their homes
- We can refer victims and survivors to specialist support services where appropriate
