Homelessness

[Andain]

Hello, not sure if anyone been in similar situation. I had incident with my bd due to dv, ss got involved, he was removed and after few months case was closed no concerns as I left him. Now, I’m facing section 21 for eviction as I can’t afford house anymore, will be contacting council for the help, will social services get involved because or what had happened before? I’m so worried about their involvement again it caused me so much stress and trauma..

[Suzie, FRG Adviser]

Dear Andain

Thank you for your post and welcome to the discussion board. My name is Suzie, I am an online adviser and will be replying to you today. I am sorry to hear of your situation. It must be a stressful and worrying time for you and your family.

You and your family were known to children’s services following a domestic abuse incident with your then boyfriend. He was removed from your home; you ended the relationship and the file to children’s services was closed. You are facing a Section 21 housing eviction as you can no longer afford the rent. You will be contacting the council for housing help and are concerned that this may trigger a referral to children’s services. You are worried about them becoming involved in your family life again due to the stress and trauma their initial involvement caused you.

We are not experts in housing legislation and guidance however, housing has a duty to support a person when children are made homeless. Further The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 [/b] amends Part 7 of the 1996 Act to strengthen the support available to victims of domestic abuse. The Act extends priority need to all eligible victims of domestic abuse who are homeless as a result of being a victim of domestic abuse. The 2021 Act brings in a new definition of domestic abuse which housing authorities must follow to assess whether an applicant is homeless as a result of being a victim of domestic abuse. The Homelessness Reduction Act 2017 significantly reformed England’s homelessness legislation by placing duties on local authorities to intervene at earlier stages to prevent homelessness in their areas.

It does not necessarily mean that because you are involved with the housing department children’s services will reopen their files. Or indeed a referral will be made from Housing to Children’s Services. Housing may make a referral if they feel you meet their criteria for doing so and good practice indicates that when a referral is made you should be notified. I hope this offers you some reassurance.

I have added a link HERE to Shelter. The are a homeless charity that provides information, guidance and support to people in your type of situation.

I have further added HERE a link to Women’s Aid. They are a domestic abuse organisation that who provide support, guidance and information for people who have experienced domestic abuse.

Best wishes, Suzie