Parliamentary.ai

Overview

This bill mandates that English local housing authorities grant secure, long-term tenancies to victims of domestic abuse who need to relocate for safety reasons. It amends the Housing Act 1985 to ensure such victims receive these secure tenancies, providing them with greater housing stability.

Description

The Secure Tenancies (Victims of Domestic Abuse) Bill amends Section 81B of the Housing Act 1985. It introduces a requirement for local authorities in England to offer "old-style secure tenancies" to individuals escaping domestic abuse. This applies if the new tenancy is necessitated by the abuse and the victim was previously a tenant (either solely or jointly) under a qualifying tenancy (including certain social housing tenancies). The bill defines "domestic abuse" broadly, encompassing violence, threats, controlling or coercive behavior, and other forms of abuse (emotional, financial, physical, psychological, or sexual) within a family, household, or intimate relationship. The bill applies to England and Wales, with the Secretary of State setting the commencement date.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending figures. The impact on government spending will depend on the number of victims requiring new tenancies and the associated housing costs. It is expected to increase housing expenditure as local authorities provide more secure tenancies.

Groups Affected

• Victims of domestic abuse in England: Positively impacted by receiving greater housing security and stability, aiding their escape from abusive situations.
• Local housing authorities in England: Required to provide more secure tenancies, potentially increasing their housing expenditure and administrative burden.
• Social housing providers in England: May experience changes in tenancy agreements and allocations due to the added requirements for secure tenancies.