Question to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what steps they will take to ensure that the Homeless Code of Guidance for Local Authorities clarifies that all individuals fleeing domestic abuse are in priority need, regardless of whether they have other forms of vulnerability.

Domestic abuse is a life-shattering and abhorrent crime. We are committed to protecting victims of domestic abuse, ensuring everyone has a roof over their head and that they receive all the support needed to rebuild their lives.

The Homelessness Code of Guidance has recently been updated in consultation with stakeholders to reflect the changes brought in by the Homelessness Reduction Act, and includes guidance on how a local authority might assess if an applicant is vulnerable and therefore in priority need. The Code of Guidance also makes clear that local authorities should not limit their understanding of domestic abuse to physical violence alone, and that in all cases involving domestic abuse, the safety of the applicant is paramount.