In a move aimed at supporting domestic abuse survivors, Minister for Housing James Browne has introduced new rules allowing them to transfer time spent on social housing waiting lists when moving to a different local authority. This change will help individuals and families fleeing domestic violence situations without being penalized or losing their place on the list.
Under the new protocol, victims and survivors with an active social housing support application can apply to another local authority while retaining their original qualification date. The receiving local authorities have the option to waive local connection requirements on a discretionary basis.
The change is in response to concerns raised by campaign groups, including the National Women's Council of Ireland and Women's Aid, that moving could result in losing one's place on the list. Minister Browne has prioritized this issue and said it was "simply not good enough" that survivors were being penalized for trying to escape domestic violence situations.
The new protocol will be implemented immediately, with local authorities receiving a circular outlining the changes. An information webinar is also planned to support staff and service providers in implementing the new rules.
Background: Domestic abuse survivors often face significant challenges when seeking social housing due to strict eligibility criteria and waiting lists. The introduction of this new policy aims to address one of these barriers, allowing survivors to prioritize their safety without fear of losing their place on the list.