Standing together against domestic violence

Tuesday February 2, 2010

The council has been praised for helping women who are fleeing domestic violence.

‘Standing Together’ has singled out the council’s commitment to improving housing services for victims. It has also applauded the council for its work to help those who are not in priority need of housing, in particular those without children.

In a letter to the council, Anthony Wills, Chief Executive of Standing Together, said: “We want to recognise your dedication to improving services available to women. It gives me great pleasure to thank you for your commitment.”

Hammersmith & Fulham Council assists those feeling domestic violence in several ways. In particular, the council employs a domestic violence worker in its housing options team. It is also leading the way in London when it comes to developing services for single people fleeing domestic violence and has set up a rent deposit guarantee scheme to get victims private rented accommodation.

The council has also just allocated more funds to extend the Sanctuary Scheme to victims of domestic violence who are not in priority need.

The Sanctuary Scheme assists victims of domestic violence, whether owner occupiers or private tenants, providing information, support and advice to people experiencing emotional or physical violence from their intimate (ex) partners.

The scheme allows survivors to access extra support to increase security and safety within the home and so preventing the need for survivors of domestic violence to leave their existing accommodation and their support networks.

Cllr Lucy Ivimy, cabinet member for housing, said: “Domestic violence is a very complex area, no two cases are the same and survivors fleeing domestic violence bring with them a vast array of issues that need to be addressed. The council is committed to doing all we can to help victims of this crime and I am delighted that we have been singled out for praise by Standing Together.”