Issue - meetings

The Head of Housing, Health and Wellbeing presented the report, seeking approval of the Domestic Abuse Residents Policy.

Members were advised that the policy had been developed as part of the Council's work towards Domestic Abuse Housing Alliance accreditation and was intended to ensure a consistent and robust response across all Council services where domestic abuse was disclosed. It was explained that the policy formalised existing good practice and would assist the Council in meeting its statutory duties under the Domestic Abuse Act 2021. Members were further advised that the policy would be kept under review and updated as required to reflect changes in legislation or guidance.

During the debate, a Member of the Committee welcomed the proposed policy, expressing support for its objectives and the approach taken. Reference was made to the importance of recognising all forms of domestic abuse, including coercive and controlling behaviour, and the value of having a clear policy that could be used to support residents experiencing such issues.

The Chairman welcomed the work undertaken by officers and encouraged Members to familiarise themselves with the policy and the support available to residents.

With no further comments, having been proposed, seconded, and voted upon, it was unanimously

RESOLVED that

a)    the Domestic Abuse Residents Policy be adopted;

b)    authority be delegated to the Director of Planning, Regeneration and Communities, in consultation with the Chairman of the Thriving People Committee, to approve minor amendments to the policy should they be required; and

c)    the ongoing statutory duties under the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 be noted.