Planned new housing policy to help abuse victims

Highland Council has set out planned new housing policy aimed at better supporting victims of domestic abuse.

The local authority said police recorded 2,700 incidents of domestic abuse in the region in 2023-24.

Highland Council added that 12% of total homelessness cases brought to it involved a violent or abusive breakdown in a relationship.

Under the new policy, the council has committed to providing anyone experiencing domestic abuse timely and consistent assistance, information and advice on housing options and choice.

Housing staff are set to get training on the policy over the next 12 months.

It includes commitments to collaborate with other organisations and services, and to making sure people know where to access specialist services.

Another aim is to"intervene appropriately" with tenants who perpetrate domestic abuse.

In a report, officers said the policy would ensure a consistent response across all housing services, and strengthen the council's role in preventing homelessness caused by domestic abuse.

The report said the majority of the people made homeless were women.

The policy also applies men, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender people and gender non-binary, as well as "honour" based abuse.