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Written question asked by Kenny MacAskill (Alba Party) on Wednesday, 8 December 2021, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 13 December 2021 (named day). It was answered by Eddie Hughes (Conservative) on Monday, 13 December 2021 on behalf of the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.

Housing: Domestic Abuse

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, what steps the Government is taking to help ensure that people fleeing domestic abuse with a pet are given the support they need to find suitable and safe accommodation.

Answer

Victims of domestic abuse with pets can face additional barriers to leaving an abusive relationship. Under the new statutory duties in the Domestic Abuse Act which came into force on 1 October 2021, local authorities must provide support for all victims of domestic abuse within safe accommodation when they need it. This includes victims who have a pet.

Associated regulations provide clear definitions of safe accommodation under the duty. This includes dispersed, self-contained accommodation, and sanctuary schemes in which the victim’s own home is made safe. Local authorities can refer to the regulations to help them provide support in safe accommodation suitable for victims with pets fleeing domestic abuse.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
89684
Session
2021-22
Subjects
Housing Domestic abuse Pets
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk