Call for stronger duty on councils to provide housing to domestic abuse victims
MP Zoe Franklin said councils are not currently obligated to offer like-for-like housing.
Victims of domestic abuse are choosing not to leave dangerous situations because they are unable to get access to suitable housing, an MP said, as she called for the statutory duty on local authorities to be strengthened.
Liberal Democrat MP Zoe Franklin said councils are not currently obligated to offer like-for-like housing, which can create “significant barriers” for those fleeing abuse.
This came as Labour MP Lee Barron told the Commons one of his constituents, who is a victim of domestic abuse, was forced to choose between a safe home and her children.
Communities minister Rushanara Ali said the Government is prioritising tackling violence against women, and pointed to a £30 million uplift in funding.
During housing, communities and local government questions, Ms Franklin, MP for Guildford, said: “Victims of domestic violence urgently need safe, stable accommodation.
