The new interactive directory involves key partners, including registered social landlords (RSLs) and domestic abuse agencies, and provides a range of key contacts, training opportunities and domestic abuse resources to ensure a joined-up service is provided. 

The directory supplements the council’s existing Housing Domestic Abuse Policy which is in place to ensure it best meets the needs of people and children experiencing, or at risk of, domestic abuse and support them appropriately.  

Convener of housing, Councillor Michael McPake, explained: “The interactive directory is a valuable resource which fosters improved multi-agency collaboration and can be accessed by other agencies and partners to allow information to be shared, safeguarding victims. 

“It advocates for a trauma-informed approach to supporting victims. Our RSL partners communicate directly with our Housing Domestic Abuse Champions and domestic abuse agencies. This ensures the sharing of relevant information, protects victims, eliminates the need for them to recount their stories repeatedly, and facilitates the best possible outcomes. 

“Our housing service and staff play a key role in raising awareness, identifying and providing housing support. This new directory supplements our approach to tackling domestic abuse, improving housing responsiveness, supporting victims and survivors and preventing and tackling domestic abuse.” 

One of the new training models being undertaken is ‘Safe and Together’, which helps create a domestic abuse-informed child welfare system and supports families experiencing domestic abuse. 

Housing domestic abuse champions have also been appointed to play a crucial role in supporting housing staff who are concerned about tenants or customers experiencing domestic abuse. They serve as a primary point of contact for RSLs facilitating discussions on cases and ensuring relevant information is shared to safeguard victims.  

Councillor Ayeshah Khan, equalities champion, added: “From the outset, our housing staff aim to support and prevent domestic abuse to people and families through early intervention and it’s great that these additional resources are in place to help tackle this challenging and complex issue. 

“Preventing and reducing adverse childhood experiences and providing safe and nurturing accommodation and support that can help children and families thrive is a top priority. Our range of domestic abuse resources puts victims, survivors and their families at the heart of our housing service.”