The government has hinted at potential legislation to protect victims of domestic abuse from being denied social housing due to rent arrears. Currently, individuals who have experienced domestic abuse can be disqualified from obtaining a social home if they have outstanding rent.
Under the proposed Social Housing Bill, social housing landlords would also gain powers to evict perpetrators of abuse, rather than requiring victims to leave their homes. Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook acknowledged in Parliament that domestic abuse survivors with debt can face barriers when applying for social housing.
While Mr Pennycook stated that guidance is currently considered the best approach to this issue, he confirmed that regulations could be introduced to amend relevant legislation if guidance proves insufficient. Labour MPs welcomed the government's commitment to prioritising domestic abuse survivors for social housing, but also called for increased support for those moving into unfurnished properties.
Labour MP Andrew Cooper highlighted that many survivors leave abusive relationships with few belongings and may lack savings or credit due to financial abuse. He noted that while priority access to social housing is crucial, many allocated properties are unfurnished, presenting a further challenge for families already experiencing trauma.
The Social Housing Bill also aims to protect existing social housing stock and encourage the construction of more social homes by reforming the Right to Buy scheme. Reforms include increasing the eligibility requirement for Right to Buy to 10 years, adjusting percentage discounts, and exempting newly built social housing from Right to Buy for 35 years.