Minister to get tough on domestic abuse

29 May 2014 04:09 PM

Carl Sargeant, the Minister for Housing and Regeneration has vowed to stop funding housing associations that do not have clear domestic abuse policies. 

The Welsh Government is committed to tackling domestic abuse, something demonstrated by the £10 million of funding allocated through the Supporting People budget to help victims, and the Minister is clear that the sector as a whole should share this commitment.

The Minister said:

"It’s a sad fact that domestic abuse is happening in homes across Wales and so it’s of the upmost importance that the housing sector leads the way in tackling these heinous crimes.

"I have written to social housing providers stating that I expected them all to develop clear policies in terms of identifying and tackling domestic abuse for both their tenants and staff. I’ve seen first hand the difference that such policies can make to vulnerable individuals, their communities and the wider support network and it’s very disappointing that not all housing providers are on board yet.

"My Housing Bill and my Renting Homes Bill both include proposals which will make it easier to help the victims of domestic violence. Our intention is to put far more focus on preventing domestic abuse and providing support as early as possible. This could save vulnerable people from a lifetime of abuse.

"It’s vital that everyone plays their part so that communities across Wales get the best support possible. Any housing provider who fails to put in place a comprehensive domestic abuse policy will see their Welsh Government funding stopped, I cannot be clearer about that."

Links

Managing Social Housing – A young person makes a new start with help from Bron Afon Community HousingHousing and regeneration