Yesterday in Parliament, the MP for Telford, Lucy Allan spoke of her support for the Secure Tenancies (Victims of Domestic Abuse) Bill, which has also received cross party support.
The debate in Parliament was the final opportunity for legislators to make any amendments to the bill before it receives royal assent and becomes law.
The Bill was introduced by the Government to ensure that someone who has a “lifetime tenancy” (a guarantee of housing provided by a local authority or housing association) would keep that guarantee if they were forced to leave their home because of domestic abuse, and would be given a lifetime tenancy in their new home.
During her speech, Ms Allan made reference to children in care who often are removed from their families as a result of domestic violence, which is an issue that Parliament needs to address.
Ms Allan also highlighted the recent tragic murders of three women in the Telford area, as a result of domestic violence. She also mentioned that it is the job of local authorities to provide a better level of response in helping women receive the correct support when falling victim to domestic violence.
Speaking after the debate, Ms Allan said:
“I am delighted to have the opportunity to put on record the importance of this piece of legislation for women who are victims of domestic violence.
“Too often, women feel as though they have nowhere to go and so stay put in violent relationships.
“I hope this bill and the £17 million violence against women and girl’s service transformation fund will provide better assurance and stability for these women so that they are able to get the help they desperately need in order to rebuild their lives and move forward.”