Council agrees new policy aimed at keeping Haringey women safe

The new domestic abuse and violence against women and girls policy aims to improve safety for all those seeking help

Victims of domestic abuse will receive “comprehensive support” from housing services as part of a “zero-tolerance approach” by Haringey Council.

Support will be available to tenants and leaseholders, as well as those in temporary accommodation or experiencing homeless as a result of domestic abuse.

The new domestic abuse and violence against women and girls policy was agreed by the cabinet last month and aims to improve safety for all those seeking help, by supporting victims to access alternative accommodation or stay in their homes if it can be made safe and they wish to do so.

The council says it is “committed to holding perpetrators to account” and responding rapidly, ensuring support is “always tailored to the needs of the victim” including through specialist services and partnership working.

It adds that all housing staff, contractors and agents will undergo regular training to respond to disclosure and ensure a proactive and co-ordinated approach.

Sarah Williams, deputy leader and cabinet member for housing and planning, said: “We take a zero-tolerance approach to domestic abuse and the safety of victims is a council priority.

“This policy is an important step in making sure victims and survivors get the help they need quickly and can access safe housing as well as ongoing support when they need it. Its adoption once again demonstrates our commitment to transforming our landlord services.

“The insights and experiences of our residents, particularly through the resident voice board, have played a key role in shaping the policy, and I want to thank them for their invaluable input.

“We want all our residents to feel safe, supported and not alone if they need our help.”

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