Housing Associations Rehousing Women Leaving Domestic Violence

This study critically examines the role of housing associations in responding to the needs of women who have become homeless due to domestic violence.

Rebuilding Lives after Domestic Violence examines in-depth the long-term outcomes for women who have suffered domestic violence and abuse, based on interviews conducted over seven years. Through these interviews the author reveals the factors which help or hinder a successful transition from abusive relationship to independent living. The women interviewed provide an insight into the lengthy and difficult process of rebuilding their lives, and offer messages and advice to those working with women who have endured similar experiences. The author examines issues the women commonly face such as finding safe and independent accommodation, building practical and emotional support systems and relationships, and issues surrounding their children. She also discusses service provision and draws together the factors that contribute to a successful and independent life. This unique book will be essential reading for all those involved in working with women who have experienced domestic violence and abuse as well as those responsible for service provision and policy development.

This publication sets out a range of written evidence made in response to the Committee's inquiry into homelessness including housing needs and adequacy of available accommodation, public investment levels, social housing allocation, service co-ordination between housing and non-housing services, implementation of the Homelessness Act 2002, and housing for key workers. Contributions include memoranda from Shelter, Crisis, the Salvation Army, the Housing Corporation, Thames Reach Bondway and other providers of homelessness services, the Greater London Authority and a wide range of local government councils.

Domestic violence, one of the most common crimes in the United Kingdom, is given an in-depth look in this newly revised handbook. What domestic violence is and why it occurs is discussed, along with details on safe housing options and social services available to women survivors and their children. This newly revised edition incorporates information on increasing government involvement, the importance of partnership between voluntary and statutory agencies, and the continued need for community-based advocacy and support. Up-to-date information on recent laws and policy initiatives is included.

This book contains new material on the improved police response, family and housing law, the policy of the new government, child protection issues, multi-agency initiatives and abusers' programmes.

Housing matters for everyone, as it provides shelter, security, privacy, and stability. For survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV), housing takes on an additional meaning; it is the key to establishing a new life, free from abuse. IPV survivors often face such inadequate housing options, however, that they must make excruciating choices between cycling through temporary shelters, becoming homeless, or returning to their abusers. Home Safe Home offers a multifaceted analysis that accounts for both IPV survivors’ needs and the practical challenges involved in providing them with adequate permanent housing. Incorporating the varied perspectives of the numerous housing providers, activists, policymakers, and researchers who have a stake in these issues, the book also lets IPV survivors have their say, expressing their views on what housing and services can best meet their short and long-term goals. Researchers Hilary Botein and Andrea Hetling not only examine the federal and state policies and funding programs determining housing for IPV survivors, but also provide detailed case studies that put a human face on these policy issues. As it traces how housing options and support mechanisms for IPV survivors have evolved over time, Home Safe Home also offers innovative suggestions for how policymakers and advocates might work together to better meet the needs of this vulnerable population.

'This is really interesting and compelling book. Abrahams' writing style is readable and engaging and is interspersed with reference to research and powerfully, the words of women who have experienced domestic violence. Right from the beginning of this book, there are passages that challenge stereotypes and tackle stereotypical thinking regarding women who experience domestic violence... Very engaging, Really useful. Powerful and authoritative, I'd recommend this book to anyone working with women, whether in the community or the workplace. I have worked with a variety of groups (children, families, people with mental health problems, older people) and domestic violence has been a factor in working in all these areas of work. This text will certainly be useful to me and no doubt to many others addressing issues of domestic violence.' - Well-Being 'Abrahams gives us a sense of how lives are shattered and rebuilt in this compelling book that is the culmination of a research project exploring the experiences of women and children in three refuges in the UK... It is a key resource for those working within women's refuges, as well as for professionals whose work brings them into contact with victims of domestic violence. Those tasked with developing and implementing public policy would also find it enlightening.' - Therapy Today 'Compelling reading for anyone working with women and children living with and leaving domestic violence.' - From the Foreword by Cathy Humphreys Women who leave an abusive relationship often experience feelings of fear, bewilderment, anger and confusion. The trauma caused by domestic violence leaves a legacy that stays with the survivor, and it is not uncommon for women to experience feelings of loss and grief similar to those following bereavement, but made more complex by the effect that abuse has had on their emotional health and well-being. Supporting Women after Domestic Violence offers accessible advice on how to enable women who have experienced domestic violence to embark on a journey of recovery. The book draws on theory, original research and the personal experiences of women who have encountered domestic violence to explore the complex practical and emotional support they need when engaging in the process of recovery. It highlights the difficulties a victim of domestic violence may encounter following an abusive relationship, offers action points to improve service provision, and covers important issues in recovery, such as the value of mutual support and how women can regain a sense of normality and self-esteem. This book will be a key resource for those working within women's refuges, as well as social workers, counsellors, mental health professionals and many others whose work may bring them into situations where domestic violence is an issue.