Documents attached

Report: Housing Services – Domestic Abuse policy (2024)

Presented by: Councillor Paul McGeary – Cabinet Member for Housing and Property

Summary:

This report explains the legal definition of the terms used in this policy; what constitutes Domestic Abuse and the measures – both legislatively and by Havering Council – currently in place to deal with the perpetrators of Domestic Abuse, regardless of whether they are tenants, leaseholders, staff or representatives of the Council.

It also sets out the rehabilitative support for perpetrators and support for victims of Domestic Abuse. 

This policy sets out the Council’s position in relation to Domestic Abuse conducted or suffered by its tenants and leaseholders.

It is required by the Social Housing Regulator as a stand-alone policy, and aligns with other, relevant Council Housing policies, such Hate Crime (2024) and Anti-Social Behaviour (2024).

It was confirmed that the Policy should be reviewed annually and in line with legislation and the Housing Regulator.

Cabinet;

1.     Agreed the safety of residents and the reputation of the Council would benefit from clearly declaring and communicating its position concerning Domestic Abuse.

2.     Approved the policy.