Oral Answers to Questions

Will Quince Excerpts

Monday 18th March 2019 Commons Chamber

[Justin Tomlinson]

We are always reviewing that process and we work very closely with stakeholders, with their wealth of experience, to make sure that we continue to deliver improvements.

[Will Quince (Colchester) (Con)]

21. What steps the Government are taking to support victims of domestic abuse through the welfare system.

[The Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Amber Rudd)]

Domestic abuse is a devastating crime and my Department will always do what it can to support victims of domestic abuse. Departmental training and awareness is now better than ever, but I can confirm that, by the summer of this year, we will ensure that we have domestic abuse specialists in every jobcentre to help everybody who needs it.

[Will Quince]

What steps are the Government taking to increase the provision and quality of supported housing for such vulnerable people?

[Amber Rudd]

I thank my hon. Friend for raising this issue. Of course, supported housing is essential for vulnerable groups, including those fleeing domestic abuse, which is why we announced in August last year that we will maintain funding for all supported housing and housing benefit. I am going to work closely with the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, the Chancellor and local authorities to ensure that quality and value for money are always available in supported housing provision for domestic abuse victims.