Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the risk of significant rent arrears accumulating for victims of domestic violence who separate from their partners, given that Universal Credit is paid in equal amounts to both parties.

We have made no assessment because we believe that support is in place for individuals who may find themselves in these circumstances. Universal Credit is one monthly payment to a household. If a member of the household leaves due to domestic violence, they can make a new claim to Universal Credit. At this point there is a range of measures to help a victim of domestic violence to prevent the risk of rent arrears, including fast track payments to be made on the same day. If people are in urgent need, we can make payment into an alternative nominated bank, building society, post office card or credit union account.

Universal Credit also has provisions for when someone is temporarily absent from their home through fear of domestic violence and abuse. In these circumstances we do not require a permanent address. If the person intends to return to their former home, they can receive their housing costs for both a former permanent home and temporary accommodation for up to a year. If an individual does not intend to return, they can receive these costs for up to four weeks for both properties. There is similar provision in respect of the housing cost element of Universal Credit.