Domestic abusers could be forced to leave social housing

Social landlords are set to be given powers to remove domestic abusers from tenancy agreements, making it easier for some abuse survivors to stay in their homes.

Regulations laid before the Scottish Parliament will bring into force provisions on tenancies that were part of a domestic abuse law passed nearly five years ago.

If backed by MSPs, social landlords could apply to the courts to remove people believed to be abusive from tenancy agreements, in effect forcing them to move out.

The new regulations, which would apply from 1 August, have been welcomed by domestic abuse campaigners.

A major factor in homelessness among women is leaving abusive relationships, with many tenancies either held jointly or solely in the name of their partner.

The Domestic Abuse (Protection) Scotland Act, passed in 2021, contained provisions to allow social landlords to act on behalf of survivors by changing the tenancy agreement, but these were not enacted immediately.

Housing Secretary Mairi McAllan confirmed the measures would now be taken forward.

She said: "No-one should have to choose between their safety and their home.

"These new regulations will give social landlords new powers to protect victims of domestic abuse and hold perpetrators to account.

"By allowing social landlords to take action on behalf of victims, we are removing a significant barrier that has forced too many people to flee their homes to escape abuse.

"Now the perpetrator can be made to leave - not leaving this to the victim or survivor."

Marsha Scott, chief executive of Scottish Women's Aid, welcomed the change in the law.

She said: "Housing is one of the main challenges women face when ending a relationship with an abusive partner and keeping a roof over the heads of their family and avoiding homelessness are critical pressures.

"Not all can stay in their own homes safely, which is why refuge provision is so important, but for the many who could, this regulatory change will bring much-needed reform.

"This change should enable women and their children to stay in their home, their schools and the area where they often have a support network and moves the consequences of abuse where they belong - the abuser."