Shocking new statistics reveal domestic abuse caused nearly one in six new homelessness cases in England between April and June 2021.

According to figures from the DLUHC, of 34,830 households newly assessed as homeless in early 2021, 5,590 were in that position because of domestic abuse. Sadly, these numbers are the highest since records began in 2018, a trend that has been attributed to Covid-19 pandemic.

Housing associations have seen this reflected in a sharp rise in referrals to homelessness and refuge services and a surge in reports of domestic abuse from residents.

So, how can the sector improve its response, not just at the crisis end in specialist services but every day, in our housing policies and practices and our interactions with both new and existing tenants who have experienced violence?

Our next workshop will explore best practice in relation to women’s homelessness – and its links to violence and abuse – with guest speakers from the Centre for Homelessness Impact (CHI) and the Centre for Regional and Economic Research (CRESR) and Homes for Cathy members Elim Housing and Wandle.

• Hear about new research by the CHI/CRESR, based on testimonies from 14 women, which examines how women’s experiences of homelessness are often shaped by gender-based violence, explores how trauma influences women’s support needs and considers the need for services and policies that are tailored to the distinct needs of women.
• Learn from a lived experience speaker on her experience of leaving a violent relationship, living in ‘unsafe’ temporary accommodation and rough sleeping.
• Hear from Elim Housing, which runs specialist supported housing for women as part of Bristol’s homelessness pathway for women, on how experiences from its C&SH services are informing a review of policies in general needs housing.
• Find out about Wandle’s journey to DAHA accreditation and the practices it has put in place to prevent homelessness linked to domestic abuse, ensuring women can remain in their homes or move to a place of safety if necessary.
• There will also be an opportunity for questions and discussion.

Please note, registration for this workshop is now closed.