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Written question asked by Paula Barker (Labour) on Tuesday, 28 March 2023, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 18 April 2023 (named day). It was answered by Baroness Maclean of Redditch (Conservative) on Tuesday, 18 April 2023 on behalf of the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.

Evictions: Domestic Abuse

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, if his Department will take steps to ensure victims of domestic abuse are not evicted from their homes following anti-social behaviour complaints.

Answer

The Government is committed to addressing the needs of victims of domestic abuse, as set out in the Domestic Abuse Plan. We understand domestic abuse and security of tenure are issues that often co-exist, and our reforms take steps to support victims. As set out in the “A Fairer Private Rented Sector” White paper, the Government is committed to abolishing Section 21, so called 'no fault' evictions, which will make tenants significantly more secure in their homes, while periodic tenancies will ensure that tenants who are experiencing domestic abuse are not financially 'locked in' to a dangerous situation, as they will be able to end their tenancy at any point. We have also published guidance making clear that the Secretary of State strongly encourages local authorities to disapply the local connection test for victims of domestic abuse.

The information requested on local connection tests is not held centrally.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
175715
Session
2022-23
Related items
A Fairer Private Rented Sector
Thursday, 16 June 2022
Command papers
House of Lords
House of Commons
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Anti-social behaviour Domestic abuse Evictions Victims
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk