AQO 1212/22-27

Ms Connie Egan
Alliance Party
North Down

Tabled Date: 14/11/2024
Answered On Date: 26/11/2024
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for Communities what action he is taking to ensure victims of domestic violence are prioritised in the points system for housing allocations.

Answer:

My Department led a review to improve how social homes are allocated in Northern Ireland and is now working closely with The Housing Executive on the implementation of the proposals as part of the Fundamental Review of Allocations.

My officials are working alongside the Housing Executive to consider independently commissioned research investigating future provision for victims of violence and those at risk or under threat of violence, including victims of domestic abuse.

This will be used to inform any changes I may make to the Housing Selection Scheme. I can assure you that I am taking a very close interest in this work and I expect to make a decision on this matter soon.