Domestic abuse is the leading cause of homelessness among women and children in Scotland
The Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA) has launched new resources to help housing associations recognise and respond to “the scourge” of domestic abuse.
It has published a toolkit, developed by Dr. Kelly Henderson of Addressing Domestic Abuse, to help housing professionals identify patterns of abuse and support victim-survivors. It also plans to provide training and webinars to housing associations.
SFHA chief executive, Sally Thomas, said: “This toolkit represents an invaluable piece of work to help housing associations identify and respond to domestic abuse, something which is unfortunately still all too necessary given the scourge of domestic abuse in our communities.
“We know that domestic abuse remains the leading cause of homelessness for women and children in Scotland and is also the most common form of violence against women and girls. Tackling this issue could not be more important.
>>See also: CIH launches new domestic abuse best practice forum for members
“And as well as the toolkit, we look forward to providing webinars and training opportunities to ensure Scotland’s housing associations build on their work in addressing domestic abuse and supporting victim-survivors.”
The toolkit includes guidance on signs of abuse, which may include noise complaints, rent arrears, or frequent home repairs, as well as the physical impacts.
Dr Henderson said: ““The Toolkit is a foundation, and I look forward to seeing further innovation across Scotland as housing providers develop and share their good practice as we know that safe, affordable housing is a key resource to victim-survivors.”
No comments yet