AQW 25962/22-27


Mr Peter McReynolds
Alliance Party
East Belfast


Tabled Date: 10/04/2025
Answered On Date: 20/05/2025
Priority Written: No


Question:
To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any support the Housing Executive provides to victims of domestic violence.


Answer:
This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The Housing Executive’s Domestic Abuse Action Plan seeks to ensure staff can provide support to those experiencing domestic abuse and to equip staff with the knowledge to signpost to appropriate services when required.
The Action Plan acknowledges that domestic abuse can be a contributing factor in homelessness wherein the Housing Executive has a statutory duty to provide temporary accommodation to homeless applicants under the Housing (NI) Order 1988.
This duty is met through a range of options for those experiencing domestic abuse, including Women’s Aid refuges, which provide temporary accommodation and support for women and children experiencing domestic and sexual abuse. Applicants’ support needs are considered when determining the suitability of accommodation and, in all cases involving domestic abuse, the safety of the Applicant is the primary consideration. 
Additionally, the Supporting People Programme helps vulnerable people live independently in the community, including those affected by domestic abuse. This programme grant funds the delivery of short-term accommodation-based services, providing support for those in housing need and through short-term Floating Support services for those who remain at home or in a community setting.
Individuals experiencing domestic abuse who are ineligible for assistance, or are not otherwise owed the full housing duty under the Housing (NI) Order 1988, can avail of advice and assistance from the Housing Executive, which can include information regarding self-referral hostels and referrals to floating support services as outlined above. The Housing Executive continues to be the main funder for such provision for those experiencing domestic abuse across Northern Ireland.”
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the NIHE directly. Making direct contact with the ALB will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.