The Government has announced plans to introduce a statutory duty on local authorities to provide services for victims and survivors of domestic abuse.
This follows consultation of victims, survivors, local authorities and service providers on how best to support domestic abuse victims and their children.
Local authorities, such as County Councils, will be compelled to convene a Local Domestic Abuse Partnership Board, developing local strategies on how to deal with domestic abuse. The Government will also set up a National Steering Group in order to monitor the delivery of these services in safe accommodation.
Commenting on the announcement, Caroline Dinenage said:
“This is a positive step forward in improving support for domestic abuse victims and their families.
"The Government is showing a commitment to helping the victims of such a vile crime, with the passing of the Domestic Abuse Bill and this announcement as an amendment to it.”
The Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, the Rt Hon Robert Jenrick, said:
“All victims, no matter their background, should feel safe and supported as they recover from this unacceptable crime.
“The Domestic Abuse Bill demonstrates the Government’s commitment to supporting all victims of domestic abuse. The Government will now introduce this new statutory duty as an amendment to the Domestic Abuse Bill at the earliest opportunity, to enable proper Parliamentary scrutiny.
“My officials will continue to work closely with local authorities, national organisations, and specialist domestic abuse service providers to ensure the proposals are effectively delivered on the ground.”
