Purpose

As part of working towards achieving accreditation with the Domestic Abuse Housing Allowance (DAHA), we need to adopt a Domestic Abuse Policy and separate procedures document.  These documents detail our approach towards supporting victims/survivors of domestic abuse, within a housing context. 

Decision

RESOLVED - That the Resident Domestic Abuse Policy is adopted, and that delegated authority is given to the Head of Housing, Health and Environment, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, to make minor amendments to the Policy in response to future legislative or guidance updates.

Reasons for the decision

Adopting the Residents Domestic Abuse Policy demonstrates the council’s commitment to providing support to victim/survivors of domestic abuse. It would also allow the DA Coordinator to continue to progress the accreditation.

Alternative options considered

Option 1- agree to adopt the Residents Domestic Abuse Policy to ensure that victim/survivors receive a survivor-led and non-judgemental response from the housing service. This would enable the Council to progress towards achieving DAHA accreditation.

Option 2- to not adopt the Residents Domestic Abuse Policy. This would prevent all further progress towards the DAHA accreditation.