Renfrewshire Council Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse - Report
Renfrewshire Council · 18 August 2026
Back to Communities and Housing Policy Board — 18 August 2026 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
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PUBLIC ___________________________________________________________________ To: Communities and Housing Policy Board On: 18 August 2026 __________________________________________________________________ Report by: Director of Environment, Housing and Infrastructure ___________________________________________________________________ Heading: Renfrewshire Council Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse ___________________________________________________________________ 1. Summary 1.1 Following enactment of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025, there is now a legal requirement for social landlords to develop and implement a policy that sets out how they will support tenants at risk of homelessness due to domestic abuse. 1.2 As noted in the Service Update report to this Board on 19 May 2026, the service has carried out a consultation on the draft policy. This consultation concluded on 3 July 2026, and the draft policy is now presented to board for approval. The Renfrewshire Council Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse is attached at Appendix 1 of this report. ___________________________________________________________________ 2. Recommendations It is recommended that the Communities and Housing Policy Board: 2.1 Approve the Renfrewshire Council Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse. ___________________________________________________________________ 3. Background 3.1 The Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse (The Policy) sets out a comprehensive, trauma-informed approach to providing a coordinated response to the accommodation and support needs of victims and survivors of domestic abuse.
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PUBLIC 3.2 It recognises domestic abuse as a pervasive issue affecting individuals differently across gender, age, and background, and reflects the Council’s commitment to ensuring victims and survivors can access safe, appropriate housing and support. 3.3 The policy has been developed collaboratively with specialist partners including; Renfrewshire Adult Protection Committee, Renfrewshire Health and Social Care Partnership, MARAC (Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference Team), the Equally Safe Partnership, Renfrewshire Women's Aid, Barnardo's, Police Scotland, the NHS, The Authentic Voice Panel, local and national housing association partners, and SaveLives; with a wide range of other partner organisations and groups consulted as part of the policy’s development. 3.4 Within the Council, relevant officers were consulted during the development of the policy, including officers from the Housing Service, Chief Executive’s Service, Social Work, Children’s Services, Community Safety and OneRen. 3.5 The policy is aligned with Scotland’s national strategy, Equally Safe, and recent legislative changes, including the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025 and Domestic Abuse (Protection) (Scotland) Act 2021. A full list of agencies is provided on the policy. 3.6 The policy adopts the Scottish Government’s definition of domestic abuse as a form of gender-based violence encompassing physical, psychological, emotional, sexual, and financial abuse, as well as coercive control. 3.7 It recognises the disproportionate impact on women and girls while ensuring inclusive support for men, LGBT+ people, and those with protected characteristics. The scope of the policy extends to all Housing Services interactions, including prevention, crisis response, rehousing, and multi- agency safeguarding 4. Strategic Context 4.1 Domestic abuse remains significantly underreported nationally with 117 incidents per 10,000 population recorded by the police in Scotland in 2024/25. The corresponding figure for Renfrewshire for the same period was 111 incidents per 10,000 population. 4.2 The policy aligns with key national frameworks - most notably Equally Safe, which seeks to eradicate violence against women and girls through prevention, early intervention, and tackling perpetrators. 4.3 New legislative powers coming into force in August 2026 will allow social landlords to seek court orders removing perpetrators or transferring tenancies to victims, strengthening the housing system’s ability to safeguard survivors
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PUBLIC 5. Aims and Objectives 5.1 The policy aims to deliver a proactive, coordinated and trauma-informed response to domestic abuse within Renfrewshire Council’s housing system. 5.2 Key objectives include improving early identification and intervention, enhancing access to safe housing pathways, strengthening collaborative working with specialist organisations, supporting staff through high-quality training, and contributing to the wider prevention of gender-based violence by promoting equality, respect, and awareness across the service 6. Housing Services Approach 6.1 Housing Services will provide confidential, sensitive and person-centred support that prioritises safety and preserves dignity for victims and survivors. This includes offering a broad range of housing options such as assisting victims and survivors to remain in their current home with safety measures in place were this is their preference; if appropriate supporting victims and survivors to transfer the tenancy to their name; using the housing allocation policy to achieve an appropriate move avoiding homelessness; the provision of temporary or supported accommodation; or through referrals to specialist housing providers. 6.2 Staff will be trained to recognise risk, respond appropriately and work in partnership with Women’s Aid, Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference, Police Scotland, Social Work and other agencies to ensure a coordinated approach. 7. Homelessness Prevention and Support 7.1 The policy acknowledges that domestic abuse is a significant cause of homelessness and commits to preventing homelessness wherever possible through early advice, safety planning and alternative housing options. 7.2 Where homelessness cannot be prevented, victims will be offered safe, appropriate temporary accommodation and a full housing options interview to maximise housing priority to achieve an appropriate housing offer that meets individual needs. The Housing Service will also ensure that domestic abuse is considered when assessing rent arrears or tenancy issues. 8. Equalities, Human Rights and Accessibility 8.1 Renfrewshire Council adopts a human-rights-based approach, recognising domestic abuse as a violation of fundamental rights, including the right to safety, dignity and a private family life. The Equality Impact Assessment carried out, highlights the importance of meeting the needs of victims with protected characteristics, and specific attention is given to those facing additional barriers, such as people with disabilities, minority ethnic communities or those with no recourse to public funds.
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PUBLIC Information will be made available in multiple formats to ensure accessibility. 9. Monitoring, Review and Continuous Improvement 9.1 The policy will undergo formal review every three years in collaboration with the Housing Domestic Abuse Working Group, survivors with lived experience and the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Partnership. 9.2 An annual performance measure will track the volume and nature of domestic abuse-related support requests, enabling continuous learning. The Council commits to ongoing improvement, embedding trauma-informed practice and ensuring staff maintain the skills needed to deliver safe, effective and compassionate services. ___________________________________________________________________ Implications of the Report 1. Financial – None 2. HR & Organisational Development – None 3. Community/Council Planning Building strong, safe, and resilient communities – Improving and maintaining neighbourhoods and homes. Working together to improve outcomes – Increasing resident satisfaction with neighbourhoods and communities. 4. Legal – None 5. Property/Assets – None 6. Information Technology – None 7. Equality & Human Rights – A comprehensive Equalities and Human Rights Impact Assessment was carried out in developing this policy. The Recommendations contained within this report have been assessed in relation to their impact on equalities and human rights. No negative impacts on equality groups or potential for infringement of individuals’ human rights have been identified arising from the recommendations contained in the report. The Impact Assessment is robust, fully evidenced and sourced. If required following implementation, the actual impact of the recommendations and the mitigating actions will be reviewed and monitored, and the results of the assessment will be published on the Council’s website. 8. Health & Safety – None
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PUBLIC 9. Procurement – None 10. Risks – None 11. Privacy Impact – None 12. Climate Risk – None 13. Children’s Rights – There is frequent reference to children within the policy with the key aim to protect, support and help them rebuild their lives and promote positive outcomes 14. COSLA Policy Position – N/A ___________________________________________________________________ Background Papers The foregoing background papers will be retained within Housing Services for inspection by the public for the prescribed period of four years from the date of the meeting. ___________________________________________________________________ Author: Paul McLean, Housing Lead Officer (Performance, Policy & Participation) E Mail: paul.mclean@renfrewshire.gov.uk
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PUBLIC Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse Environment, Housing & Infrastructure Services Effective Date: August 2026 Review Date: August 2029 August 2026
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 1 PUBLIC Contents 1 1. Introduction 2 2. Definition of Domestic Abuse 4 3. Aims and Objectives 5 4. Outcomes 6 5. Scope of this Housing Policy 7 6. National Context 8 7. Local Context 12 8. Local and National Support, Help & Advice 14 9. Equalities, Human Rights and Impact 15 10. Policy Statement 17 10.1 Our Approach 17 10.2 Housing Options 20 10.3 Prevention and Early Housing Advice 20 10.4 Partnership working 21 10.5 Risk Assessment 22 10.6 Safety Planning 22 10.7 Action against Perpetrators 22 10.8 Homelessness 24 10.9 Training 25 10.10 Core Business 26 10.11 Review and Evaluation 26 10.12 Alternative formats 27
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 2 PUBLIC 1. Introduction This housing policy was developed in collaboration with partners, external organisations and other groups who support victims and survivors with lived experience of domestic abuse. The aim of the policy is to ensure that the Housing Service is proactive in its response to providing effective support to victims and survivors of all forms of domestic abuse with a view to preventing and eradicating all forms of domestic abuse. The policy sets out the Housing Service’s approach to providing a coordinated response to the accommodation and support needs of victims and survivors of domestic abuse. The policy has been informed by the recommendations set out in the ‘Change, Justice and Fairness’ research (2015) and the collaborative work undertaken by the Scottish Government, COSLA and key partners in the public, private and third sectors when refreshing the Scottish Government’s Equally Safe Strategy (2018) in 2023 alongside the development of the Equally Safe Delivery Plan Summer 2024 to Spring 2026. The Equally Safe Delivery Plan outlines the tangible actions all public sector and third sector organisations working to tackle violence against women and girls (VAWG) at a local level will take to realise the ambitions of the Equally Safe Strategy and to drive progress by implementing actions individually and collectively in a cross-cutting and inclusive way. The policy takes account of The Domestic Abuse (Protection) (Scotland) Act 2021 which builds upon previous legislation by introducing additional measures aimed at protecting individuals experiencing domestic abuse, particularly where they live with their abuser. Certain provisions of the 2021 Act were subject to secondary legislation prior to their implementation; this included the power for social landlords to apply for a Court Order (Order for Termination) to terminate an abusers’ interest in a tenancy. This power, available to social landlords from the 1st August 2026, will assist social landlords in facilitating the transfer of a tenancy from a perpetrator of domestic abuse to the victim or survivor were a Sheriff grant the requested Court Order. The policy also takes account of the Housing (Scotland) Act 1987 and the amendments contained within the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025, including Part 5 of the Act which relates to homelessness prevention and the duties of relevant bodies and social landlords in relation to domestic abuse.
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 3 PUBLIC These duties include the requirement for social landlords to develop and implement a policy that sets out how they will support tenants who are at risk of homelessness due to domestic abuse; and also where rent arrears may be linked to domestic abuse, social landlords must take this into account and comply with enhanced pre-action requirements, including taking reasonable steps in line with their domestic abuse policy, before progressing eviction action. The policy is aligned with Scotland’s six public health priorities and takes cognisance of the links to violence against women, drawing on the recommendations set out. The policy is also closely aligned to Renfrewshire’s Local Housing Strategy 2023-2028 and to the Rapid Rehousing Transition Plan (RRTP), which sets out the Council’s and wider partners’ approach to effectively addressing homelessness in Renfrewshire. The policy aligns with Renfrewshire Council’s vision of ‘Working together to make Renfrewshire a fairer, more inclusive place where all our people, communities and businesses thrive’. The policy should be read in conjunction with Renfrewshire Council’s Allocation Policy which aims to maximise the housing priority of victims and survivors of domestic abuse to achieve an appropriate housing offer that meets individual needs. Renfrewshire Council recognises the key role the Council’s Housing Service and the wider housing sector play in tackling domestic abuse with housing playing a key role in the public protection agenda. Renfrewshire Council’s Housing Service is a key partner of Renfrewshire Women’s Aid, GALOP (LGBT plus domestic violence helpline), Kairos Women Plus (community led women’s organisation), Jubilee House (specific domestic violence project - charity) and SAY Women (women under 26 who are victims of sexual violence) with the partnership response to domestic abuse in Renfrewshire framed within the context set out in the Scottish Government’s Equally Safe Strategy.
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 4 PUBLIC 2. Definition of Domestic Abuse Domestic abuse can occur in any relationship and may affect individuals of any gender, age, sexuality or background. While anyone can be affected by domestic abuse, national evidence makes it clear that domestic abuse affects different groups in different ways and to different extents. The Housing Service understands domestic abuse to be gender based, predominately violence and abuse against women and girls (VAWG) with this Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse based on the Scottish Government’s definition of domestic abuse as a form of Gender Based Violence (GBV) with women and girls significantly disproportionately the victims of Gender Based Violence. In line with this nationally agreed definition, this policy defines domestic abuse as physical, sexual and psychological violence occurring in the family (including children and young people), within the general community or in institutions, including any form of controlling, coercive, threatening, degrading or violent behaviour including physical, emotional, sexual, economic and financial abuse; domestic abuse, rape, and incest; sexual harassment, bullying and intimidation, commercial sexual exploitation, child sexual abuse, including familial sexual abuse, and all forms of ‘honour based’ violence, including dowry related violence, female genital mutilation, forced and child marriages, and ‘honour’ crimes.
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 5 PUBLIC 3. Aims and Objectives This housing policy aims to ensure that the Housing Service is proactive in its response to providing an effective response to victims and survivors of all forms of domestic abuse with a view to preventing all forms of domestic abuse. This policy’s primary aims include: Working collaboratively with key partners and wider stakeholders to identify ways in which we can take earlier, effective intervention and improve our services and responses to tackling domestic abuse; Working with partners to learn from the lived experiences of victims and survivors of domestic abuse to ensure their voices are heard and contribute to the shaping of our housing policies and services; Providing a policy framework that sets out clear messaging promoting equality and respect, rejecting all forms of domestic abuse; Developing an improved understanding of domestic abuse amongst housing staff to ensure staff can provide effective, high quality housing support, advice and information; Supporting wellbeing amongst our housing workforce to ensure a supportive and trauma responsive environment to effectively address domestic abuse across all sectors of society; Assisting in signposting victims and survivors of domestic abuse to an effective and trauma informed service who are experienced in domestic abuse; Preventing and reducing the effects of adverse childhood experiences and providing safe and nurturing accommodation and support that can help children and families thrive; Working with our Housing Association partners and the wider housing sector to share learning and promote best practice in relation to tackling domestic abuse; and Challenging gendered stereotypes across all aspects of our service delivery.
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 6 PUBLIC 4. Outcomes This policy aims to achieve the following objectives to support meeting the policy’s overarching aim of ensuring that the Housing Service is proactive in its response to providing an effective response to victims and survivors of all forms of domestic abuse with a view to preventing all forms of domestic abuse. Domestic abuse is prevented where possible, but where it does occur, a coordinated, effective response is provided which enables victims and survivorsto access a range of appropriate housing options, advice, information and support. Our communities, workplaces and wider society embrace equality and mutual respect and reject all forms of domestic abuse. Inequalities are reduced and opportunities through partnership working are created which promote improved life chances for women, children, young people, families at risk, and other vulnerable people/groups of people affected by domestic abuse, therefore reducing the inequalities experienced by victims and survivors of domestic abuse. Our workplace training will ensure all staff embrace equality and mutual respect and reject all forms of domestic abuse.
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 7 PUBLIC 5. Scope of this Housing Policy This policy sets out Renfrewshire Council’s Housing Service’s approach to providing a coordinated response to the accommodation and support needs of victims and survivors of domestic abuse. The policy recognises that domestic abuse is a gendered crime with women predominantly the victims and men predominantly the perpetrators of this crime.1 This violent and abusive behaviour is predominantly carried out by men and directed at women and girls because of their sex with this behaviour stemming from systemic, deep-rooted women’s inequality. This includes domestic abuse, rape, sexual assault, commercial sexual exploitation (like prostitution), female genital mutilation, forced marriage and ‘honour based’ violence where people may be abused and victimised for bringing a perception of shame or scrutiny upon their family. This abuse can take many forms, from verbal abuse and coercive control to extreme acts such as kidnapping or murder. Renfrewshire Council recognises that domestic abuse can also affect men, transgender people and people who are gender fluid with this policy to be applied to meet individual needs and requirements. 1 Scottish Government Official Statistics - Domestic Abuse in Scotland, 2024/25, Table 5
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 8 PUBLIC 6. National Context Incidents of violence and domestic abuse often go unreported to the police and other services with this crime often concealed. This can result in official statistics only partially capturing the extent and prevalence of domestic abuse, making it difficult to accurately estimate the full scale and impact of domestic abuse locally and nationally across different groups. The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic also created additional challenges and complexities for people experiencing domestic abuse, highlighting that domestic abuse remains a serious and significant issue in Scotland. Domestic abuse in Scotland (Latest available statistical data) Source: Scottish Government Official Statistics - Domestic Abuse in Scotland, 2024/25 Source: Most recent data for DASA figures is for 2023/24 - Scottish Government Official Statistics - Domestic Abuse in Scotland, 2023/24 Source: Scottish Government, Homelessness in Scotland: 2023/24* and 2024/25^ Reports, Tables T5* & T6^ In 2024/25, there were 117 recorded incidents of domestic abuse per 10,000 of Scotland's population across all genders. In 2024/25, there were 111 recorded incidents of domestic abuse per 10,000 of Renfrewshire's population across all genders. In 2024/25, nationally the ratio of female victims recorded per 10,000 population was 149, for male victims it was 33 per 10,000. In 2024/25, female victims aged 31 to 35 years of age experienced the highest incidence rate of domestic abuse with 407 incidents recorded per 10,000 population nationally. Noting that domestic abuse tends to be underreported as a crime, data from Police Scotland and the Scottish Government shows: In 2024/25, 81% of recorded crimes involved a female victim and a suspected male perpetrator. In 2023/24, under the Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act 2018, 92% of recorded crimes involved a female victim and a suspected male perpetrator. In 2023/24, 63% of recorded crimes under the Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act 2018 were committed by an ex-partner, ex- spouse or ex-civil partner. Violent or abusive disputes within the household was the main reason given by 12% of all homeless applicants nationally in 2024/25^ (2023/24: 13%)*
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 9 PUBLIC The Scottish Government’s Equally Safe Strategy (2018), refreshed in 2023, is Scotland's strategy to eradicate violence against women, making it unequivocally clear that violence against women and girls (VAWG), in any form, has no place in the Scottish Government’s vision for a safe, strong and successful Scotland. The Scottish Government, COSLA and key partners recognise that violence against women damages health and wellbeing, limits freedom, potential and is a violation of the most fundamental human rights. The main aim of the Equally Safe Strategy is to work collaboratively with key partners across sectors to prevent and eradicate all forms of violence against women and girls (VAWG). The Equally Safe Strategy is reinforced by the Equally Safe Delivery Plan to ensure that ambitions are rooted in practical delivery, setting out the following key priorities: A strong and flourishing Scotland where all individuals are equally safe and respected, and where women and girls live free from all forms of violence and abuse - and the attitudes that help perpetuate it. The Equally Safe Strategy sets out a vision for: Tackling perpetrators. Intervening early and effectively to prevent violence and maximising the safety and wellbeing of women, children and young people; Achieving greater gender equality;
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 10 PUBLIC This housing policy is aligned with the Equally Safe Strategy vision, aims and priorities and also makes a key contribution to national outcomes, including, but not limited to: The Change, Justice and Fairness Report provides important insights into the experiences of women who have been subject to domestic and sexual abuse and faced the risk of homelessness with these insights used to inform this policy. The Change, Justice and Fairness Report highlights several recommendations relevant to wider housing services in terms of strategic and operational delivery of services aimed at preventing homelessness for women and children experiencing domestic or sexual abuse at the earliest opportunity. This housing policy takes account of the Housing (Scotland) Act 1987 and the amendments contained within the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025. We live our lives free from crime, disorder and danger; We have tackled the significant inequalities in Scottish society; We have strong resilient and supportive communities where people take responsibility for their own actions and how they affect others; Our children have the best start in life and are ready to succeed; We have improved the life chances for young people and families at risk.
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 11 PUBLIC Part 5 of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025 which received Royal Assent in November 2025 relates to Homelessness prevention and the duties of relevant bodies, including social landlords. This includes new requirements for social landlords relating to domestic abuse: Source: Part 5 of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025 Where rent arrears may be linked to domestic abuse, social landlords must take this into account and comply with enhanced pre-action requirements, including taking reasonable steps in line with their domestic abuse policy, before progressing eviction action. Social landlords are required to develop and implement a policy that sets out how they will support tenants who are at risk of homelessness due to domestic abuse; and
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 12 PUBLIC 7. Local Context As previously noted, incidents of domestic abuse often go unreported to the police and other services with official statistics likely to only partially capture the extent and prevalence of domestic abuse across different groups. Data from Police Scotland for 2024/25 identified 117 recorded incidents of domestic abuse per 10,000 population in Scotland. Over the same period, Renfrewshire recorded 111 domestic abuse crimes per 10,000 population across all genders.2 Police Scotland data also notes the number of domestic abuse incidents in Renfrewshire across all genders was 2,096 in 2024/25 (an increase on the 2023/24 figure of 2,088 incidents). 3 The majority of official statistical data is published at a national level (Scotland or the United Kingdom) which makes it difficult to derive specific data at a Renfrewshire local authority area level. The Housing Service in Renfrewshire is a key partner of Renfrewshire Women’s Aid, GALOP (LGBT+ domestic violence helpline), Kairos Women Plus (community led women’s organisation), Jubilee House (specific domestic violence project - charity) SAY Women (women under 26 who are victims of sexual violence). These groups and organisations provide vital support, information, advice and accommodation for women at risk of or experiencing domestic abuse. The partnership response to domestic abuse in Renfrewshire is framed within the context set out in the national Equally Safe Strategy in recognition of the deep-rooted structural gender inequalities that underpin domestic abuse and other forms of gender based violence, whilst also acknowledging the wider harms caused by domestic abuse in families and communities, recognising that whilst anyone can be a victim of domestic abuse, women and girls are disproportionately more affected. Renfrewshire Council recognises the central role that Housing Services and the wider housing sector play in people lives and has publicly demonstrated this through the commitment to take action to tackle domestic abuse by signing the ‘Make a Stand’ pledge developed by the Chartered Institute of Housing, Women’s Aid and the Domestic Abuse Housing Alliance. 2 Scottish Government Official Statistics - Domestic Abuse in Scotland, 2024/25 3 Scottish Government Official Statistics - Domestic Abuse in Scotland, 2024/25
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 13 PUBLIC The ‘Make a Stand’ pledge requires Renfrewshire Council alongside around 400 other housing organisations nationally to: In addition to the strategic and operational Violence Against Women (VAW) groups, housing plays a key role in the public protection agenda, with participation in Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conferences (MARAC) and also through working with others to help in the process of identifying and tackling serial perpetrators of domestic abuse. Renfrewshire Council provides a range of online information to assist victims and survivors of domestic abuse; and to raise awareness amongst staff, communities and other organisations in terms of the types and forms of abuse and the help and assistance available to tackle and prevent domestic abuse in Renfrewshire. This also includes financial advice and support for people affected by domestic abuse with advice available from Woman and Children First, Advice Works and the Council’s benefits team in terms of Employment and Support Allowance; Jobseekers Allowance; Housing Benefit and Local Housing Allowance; Tax Credits and the Jobcentre Social Fund. Put in place and embed a policy to support residents who are affected by domestic abuse; Make information about national and local domestic abuse support services available online and in other appropriate places so that they are easily accessible for residents and staff; Put in place an HR policy, or amend an existing policy, to support members of staff who may be experiencing domestic abuse; and Appoint a champion at a senior level in the organisation to own the activity you are doing to support people experiencing domestic abuse.
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 14 PUBLIC 8. Local and National Support, Help and Advice Renfrewshire Council Website Information and Advice Women and Children First woman.sw@renfrewshire.go v.uk 0300 300 0345 Renfrewshire Women’s Aid www.renfrewshirewomensai d.co.uk 0141 561 7030 Refuge Domestic abuse organisation for women www.refuge.org.uk 0808 2000 247 Galop LGBT+ Domestic Abuse Helpline 0800 999 5428 Jubilee House www.jubileehousescotland.c om 07538 117 031 Kairos Women+ www.kairoswomen.org 0141 3785078 SAY Women www.say-women.co.uk 0141 552 5803 Scotland's 24-hour Domestic Abuse and Forced Marriage Helpline 0800 027 1234 Rape Crisis Scotland www.rapecrisisscotland.org. uk 08088 01 03 02 Safe Lives UK wide charity dedicated to ending domestic abuse Men's Advice Line 0808 801 0327 Renfrewshire Council Housing Advice & Homeless Services 0300 300 1203 Renfrewshire Advice Works adviceworks@renfrewshire. gov.uk 0300 300 1238 Police Scotland 999 for emergencies and 101 for non-emergencies Citizens Advice 0141 889 2121 Shelter 0808 800 4444
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 15 PUBLIC 9. Equalities, Human Rights and Impact Renfrewshire Council and the Housing Service apply a human rights approach to domestic abuse. The Council recognises that domestic abuse violates human rights because it denies victims their rights, this includes the right not to be treated in an inhuman and degrading way; the right to respect for private and family life and the right to life. Renfrewshire Council listens to the experiences of victims and survivors of domestic abuse and will protect victim’s and survivor’s right to a home life, including the peaceful and safe occupation of their home. Housing Services will work with communities and partner organisations to ensure services remain accessible, inclusive and responsive to people from diverse backgrounds, recognising that experiences of domestic abuse may be shaped by culture, language, faith, disability, sexuality and other factors. The Equality Act 2010 places statutory duties on the Council to ensure its functions and related services offer fair access and inclusion through: An Equalities Impact Assessment (EQIA) was undertaken whilst this policy was being developed to identify any potential adverse impacts on people or groups with or who share a protected characteristic; and any opportunities in which to strengthen and promote equalities. This assessment included an assessment of the Fairer Scotland Duty and Human Rights. The fostering of good relations between people who share a protected characteristic and those who do not. The advancement of equality of opportunity between people who share a protected characteristic and those who do not; and The elimination of unlawful discrimination, harassment or victimisation;
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 16 PUBLIC This housing policy should positively impact all protected characteristics by supporting the tackling and prevention of all forms of domestic abuse in Renfrewshire in line with Scottish Government and United Kingdom Government policy.
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 17 PUBLIC 10. Policy Statement 10.1 Our Approach Our approach is based on the ‘Progressing Equality Outcomes and Mainstreaming Equality Progress Report 2019.’ The 4 ‘P’s’ approach Housing Services are at the forefront of delivering services to victims and survivors affected by domestic abuse. Housing Services will offer a confidential, sensitive and priority service to anyone experiencing or at risk of domestic abuse and who may be seeking support, advice, information, temporary accommodation or re-housing. This may include assistance with sustaining current accommodation, where this is possible and the preference of victims and survivors, preventing the need to present as homeless. This may avoid any potential distress and trauma associated with moving into temporary accommodation or moving to an unfamiliar area away from existing support networks. Housing Services also acknowledge that for some victims and survivors, the trauma experienced in their accommodation may mean that it is no longer an option for them to remain there. In these circumstances Housing Services will find alternative suitable accommodation. Prevention–to prevent, remove or diminish the risk of violence against all groups and its impacts on children and young people; Protection– to protect victims and survivors from victimisation, repeat victimisation or harassment by perpetrators and protect the children and young people affected; Provision– to provide adequate services to deal with the consequences of violence against all victims, survivors and children to help them rebuild their lives; and Participation– to ensure policy making and practice development around domestic violence is shaped by the experience, needs and views of those who use services.
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 18 PUBLIC Housing Services recognise that children and young people who experience domestic abuse may be affected both immediately and throughout later life. In line with trauma-informed practice and GIRFEC principles, consideration will be given to the needs of children and young people as part of housing assessments, support planning and partnership working. Housing Services also recognise that victims and survivors of domestic abuse who approach the Housing Service asking for help may also have other issues such as a disability, addiction issue or be financially dependent on their abuser. Housing Services will also work with mental health or addictions services were appropriate to ensure appropriate referral pathways are in place to support victims and survivors of domestic abuse. Housing Services will facilitate swift and good access to services when they are needed and will work with services on behalf of victims and survivors where this is the preference of victims and survivors. Housing Services will work in partnership with specialist services, including Women’s Aid, Citizens Advice (home owners) and Shelter. Recognising the impact of economic and financial abuse, Housing Services will seek to support access to welfare rights advice, money advice, income maximisation services and other sources of financial support to promote long-term housing stability and independence. Housing Services will ensure that we treat victims and survivors with empathy and provide a trauma informed service to explore a range of housing options and support to identify the best housing and/or support outcome. Housing Services also recognise that some victims and survivors may experience additional specific barriers, including those with ‘no recourse to public funds’ (NRPF) due to their immigration status. This can be a major barrier to escaping abuse as victims may be afraid to approach services for support or advice due to fear of being deported. To support victims who experience these complex and challenging situations, Housing Services and Social Work will work with partners, including national organisations who have expertise in advising and supporting victims with ‘no recourse to public funds’ (NRPF). The nature and intersectionality of domestic abuse will be at the forefront of our approach to tackling structural inequalities. Housing Services will ensure our housing response takes full cognisance of the inter-connectedness and impact of disability, ethnicity, sexuality, poverty and other factors in relation to domestic abuse and the ways in which individual or multiple factors can combine and interact in ways to exacerbate inequality.
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 19 PUBLIC The principles that underpin the Housing Service’s approach to victims and survivors experiencing abuse include: Their views will be heard and fully understood; They will have their housing needs assessed; They will have access and support to maintain affordable housing or appropriate accommodation; and They can be assured that any information provided will be dealt with in the strictest confidence. To achieve this, we will ensure that victims and survivors experiencing domestic abuse receive: A consistent high-quality service; A thorough assessment of their accommodation and support needs; Access to appropriate accommodation; Access to housing support; Access to specialist support services; Access to legal information on the protection available to them; Signposting to all other relevant agencies;
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 20 PUBLIC 10.2 Housing Options Housing Services aim is to provide the highest quality housing options advice and information to help identify a range of appropriate housing options to best meet the individual needs of victims and survivors at risk of or experiencing domestic abuse. Housing Services will work with victims and survivors of domestic abuse to explore these options, linking with other services and organisations as appropriate, to ensure that housing and support needs are fully considered and that a plan is jointly agreed on how to progress and meet these needs. Housing options include, but are not limited to: Supporting victims and survivors to remain in their home (where this is their preference); Removing the perpetrator (where possible); Rehousing the perpetrator; Supporting victims and survivors to transfer the tenancy to their name; Supporting victims and survivors to gain legal advice and information; Utilising the Housing Allocation Policy to assess the housing needs of applicants experiencing domestic abuse to achieve a move through the general or transfer waiting list and avoid homelessness; Referral to another local authority or specialist service that can assist with rehousing in another local authority area; Provision of temporary and/or supported accommodation; and Enabling access to specialist domestic abuse support and/or accommodation. Housing Services will always aim to ensure that victims and survivors of domestic abuse are able to choose the gender of staff when accessing support and advice. 10.3 Prevention and Early Housing Advice Housing Services will always aim to provide good housing advice at an early stage, providing access to a range of information and housing options so that an informed decision can be made on how best to meet the needs of victims and survivors of domestic abuse. Housing Services recognise that victims at risk of or experiencing domestic abuse often feel the need to leave their current accommodation and that this may not always help them to be or feel safe in the longer term which can create further trauma and hardship; for example, through moving into temporary accommodation and then permanent housing and the associated costs and upheaval associated with homelessness.
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 21 PUBLIC Where a person affected by domestic abuse wishes to remain in their own home, Housing Services will support them to do so, wherever possible. This may involve an assessment of home safety and support needs. Housing Services also recognise that for some victims and survivors this may not be an option and will work with victims and survivors to find suitable alternative accommodation that meets their needs where this is required. Housing Services will continue to work closely with relevant public bodies and community planning partners to support the early identification of housing need and risks associated with domestic abuse. This includes collaborative working with health and social care services to ensure opportunities for early intervention and support are maximised. Staff will be supported through training and guidance to recognise potential indicators of domestic abuse, including coercive control, financial difficulties linked to economic abuse, repeated requests for security measures, social isolation, anxiety or fearfulness, and concerns regarding children and family wellbeing. 10.4 Partnership working Housing Services are committed to working with a range of partners and other Council services to achieve the best possible outcomes for people affected by domestic abuse. This includes the key role housing has in the public protection agenda and participation in Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conferences (MARAC) which support the highest risk domestic abuse victims. This joint working between the Housing Service and MARAC also assists in the evidence gathering process, helping to facilitate the most appropriate support and action for victims and survivors of domestic abuse. Housing Services also work with partners on a regular basis for other domestic abuse victims and survivors who are not subject to MARAC conferencing arrangements, to improve safety and reduce the impact of domestic abuse and to prevent it from occurring or reoccurring. Housing Services will maintain clear referral pathways with specialist domestic abuse services and relevant partner agencies to support timely access to advice, advocacy, health, social care and other support services where required. Housing Services will also continue to work collaboratively with health and social care partners to support early identification of domestic abuse, improve referral pathways and promote positive outcomes for individuals, children and families affected by domestic abuse.
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 22 PUBLIC Partnership working also takes place at a strategic and operational policy level to ensure a consistent approach across services and partners within Renfrewshire and to improve our response to prevent and tackle domestic abuse efficiently and effectively. 10.5 Risk Assessment Risk assessment is vital in supporting victims and survivors of domestic abuse. It can help prevent domestic abuse from occurring and can ultimately save lives. Housing Services will work with partners, including MARAC, Police Scotland, Social Work, Women’s Aid and the Community Safety Team to identify risk and will work together to understand risks, such as escalation; fear; isolation; and child contact amongst others with this partnership collaboration key to enabling effective safety planning. Risk assessments and safety planning will also consider the potential use of technology as a means of coercion, monitoring or control and will incorporate appropriate safety measures where required. Housing Services staff will also identify and refer as appropriate, using the Adult and Child Protection Policies and Procedures in place with staff trained and skilled in understanding safeguarding policies and procedures. 10.6 Safety Planning Safety Planning is a vital tool when working with victims and survivors of domestic abuse. It is of particular importance when the victim resides with the perpetrator; when they consider leaving; and after they have left. Risk increases at the point when a victim is leaving, it is vitally important that risk is regularly reviewed as the situation changes. Safety planning is an important component of the support provided by Housing Services and the partnership working undertaken to support and protect victims and survivors affected by domestic abuse. 10.7 Action against Perpetrators The Domestic Abuse (Protection) (Scotland) Act 2021 Evidence supports that domestic abuse is one of the main causes of homelessness amongst women both in Renfrewshire and nationally.
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 23 PUBLIC The Domestic Abuse (Protection) (Scotland) Act 2021 builds upon previous legislation by introducing additional measures to help protect individuals experiencing domestic abuse, particularly when they live with their abuser. The 2021 Act provides Police Scotland and the Courts with tools including Domestic Abuse Protection Notices (DAPNs) and Domestic Abuse Protection Orders (DAPOs) to assist in safeguarding victims and survivors. These measures are intended to remove abusers from the home for a period of up to 3 months and prohibit contact with the victim, even in the absence of criminal proceedings. These measures aim to support individuals at risk of domestic abuse and potentially provide breathing space for victims of domestic abuse to consider their longer-term options in relation to their safety and housing needs. Part 2, Section 22 of The Domestic Abuse (Protection) (Scotland) Act 2021 Part 2, Section 22 of The Domestic Abuse (Protection) (Scotland) Act 2021 amends the Housing (Scotland) Act 2001 to empower social landlords (from the 1st August 2026) to apply to the Sheriff Court for an Order of Termination to end a sole perpetrator’s tenancy or to remove their joint interest in a tenancy as set out under Ground 15A which makes abusive behaviour towards a partner or ex-partner a specific ground for eviction or tenancy transfer. This change will support social landlords to end the tenancy of an abuser and/or transfer the tenancy to the victim or survivor, provided the victim or survivor wish to remain in the home as a sole tenant. Domestic Abuse Protection Orders (DAPOs): Longer-term protective orders issued by the Courts, which can include prohibitions on contacting the victim, entering the home, or other actions that would constitute abuse. Domestic Abuse Protection Notices (DAPNs): Short-term immediate emergency measure issued by senior police officers to provide immediate protection when there are reasonable grounds to believe abuse has occurred.
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 24 PUBLIC In June 2026, the Scottish Government published Statutory Guidance for social landlords on the use of these powers to ensure best practice across social housing providers. This Statutory Guidance for social landlords must be used when bringing a case to the Sheriff Court. A criminal conviction is not strictly necessary; behaviour falling short of criminality may be deemed sufficient to warrant tenancy termination, provided the social landlord can prove the abusive behaviour to the Court. The Court will consider whether all of the conditions set out in Ground 15A have been met when deciding whether to grant the Order. Social landlords are encouraged to work in close partnership with other agencies, including domestic abuse specialist services and victims and survivors themselves to determine the best immediate and long-term housing options that will provide safety, security and tenancy sustainability for victims and survivors and their household. The Domestic Abuse (Protection) (Scotland) Act 2021 prioritises the safety and well-being of individuals experiencing domestic abuse and aims to reduce the risk of homelessness as a consequence of leaving an abusive situation, marking a critical shift in preventing homelessness by removing and barring the perpetrator from the home and providing social landlords with greater control to transfer tenancies to a victim or survivor, upholding victims and survivors rights to remain in their home. The Domestic Abuse (Protection) (Scotland) Act 2021 is a welcome development and will help improve housing outcomes for victims and survivors affected by domestic abuse as previous legislation did not safeguard housing rights. 10.8 Homelessness In 2024/25, ‘Violent or abusive’ disputes within the household was the main reason given by 12% of all homeless applicants nationally according to statistical data from the Scottish Government’s ‘Homelessness in Scotland: 2024-25’ Report. 4 Housing Services will always endeavour to avoid homelessness wherever possible, providing a full housing options interview and prevention interventions, whilst seeking to maximise the housing priority for victims and survivors affected by domestic abuse in order to achieve an appropriate housing offer that meets individual needs. However, Housing Services also recognise that there are some circumstances in which homelessness cannot be prevented, and this policy aims to reduce the impact that homelessness may have on victims and survivors experiencing or at risk of domestic abuse. 4 Scottish Government, Homelessness in Scotland: 2023/24 and 2024/25 Reports, Tables T5 & T6
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 25 PUBLIC Housing Services have clear processes in place to ensure: The provision of safe, secure and comfortable temporary accommodation if required and access to permanent, settled accommodation as quickly as possible to minimise the time spent in temporary accommodation; That we listen to victims and survivors about where they want to live to ensure that, as far as possible, any offer of accommodation (temporary or permanent) meets their needs in terms of safety; support networks including family and childcare; schooling arrangements; employment and educational needs; and access to other necessary amenities or facilities to meet their needs; and The provision of support, information and advice on a range of housing options, including working with other local authorities where required, to ensure the best housing, safety and wellbeing outcomes. 10.9 Training Housing Services are committed to ensuring that all housing staff understand and are able to respond to domestic abuse. As a minimum, all housing staff will be provided with Domestic Abuse Awareness Raising Training (DAART) with frontline housing staff and managers undertaking enhanced training. This will ensure that staff: Training also takes place in relation to risk assessment and safety planning in the form of ‘Save Lives DASH Risk Assessment Training’. Underpinning the range of domestic abuse training, there is also a range of trauma-informed practice training. The Housing Service are committed to ensuring that housing staff complete and understand trauma informed training, with enhanced training for housing staff in support roles or with greater contact with the public. Housing Services will continue to roll out further training and learning opportunities on trauma within the housing service to embed trauma responsive practices across all aspects of our business and to develop a trauma-informed workforce. Understand domestic abuse and other forms of violence; Can identify people at risk and understand the behaviour of perpetrators; and Can respond in a trauma responsive way.
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 26 PUBLIC As part of the development of this policy, Housing Services are actively working with key partners and organisations to develop face to face training that is tailored to promote a detailed understanding of the needs and requirements of victims and survivors of domestic abuse. This training will support delivery of a service that is empathetic and understanding to ensure that victims and survivors needs are understood and met by the Housing Service. 10.10 Core Business Housing Services will ensure that no matter the service area, tackling domestic abuse is everyone’s responsibility and that there is a good awareness and understanding of domestic abuse across every area of our service and its impacts. This includes, for example, dealing with antisocial behaviour so that there is no confusion between domestic abuse and anti-social behaviour; managing rent arrears so that domestic abuse is considered in the context of the impact on financial circumstances and wider tenancy and housing management areas. Housing Services will continue to build on developing a greater understanding amongst our wider housing workforce to reduce any service generated risks and to encourage housing staff to understand how domestic abuse relates to all other areas of people’s lives in complex ways. 10.11 Review and Evaluation This policy will be subject to regular review to ensure effective implementation; continued relevance; and to support best practice in supporting victims and survivors, particularly women and children, affected by domestic abuse. The policy will be reviewed every three years with each review coordinated by the Housing Domestic Abuse Working Group in partnership with organisations that support women with lived and living experience of domestic abuse and the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) Partnership. An annual indicator will be added to the Housing Services performance management framework to record the number of requests for advice and support. Housing Services will seek to monitor both levels of demand and outcomes achieved, including homelessness prevention activity, referral to specialist support and tenancy sustainment, to support continuous improvement and learning.
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Housing Policy in relation to Domestic Abuse – August 2026 27 PUBLIC 10.12 Alternative formats This document can be made available in a range of languages and formats, including large print, braille, audio, electronic and accessible formats.