Domestic Violence and Housing

This course will heighten delegates' awareness of the housing problems associated with domestic violence and provide practical, up-to-date information on the options available to support clients who are in this situation.

Course contains

• Definitions of domestic violence
• Pros and Cons of different housing options
• Short term occupation rights (including Matrimonial Home Rights)
• Civil Partnership Act 2004
• Ways to gain or re-enforce occupation rights, exclude an abuser and/or gain greater protection including:
• - Remedies under the Family Law Act 1996 (eg injunctions)
• - Protection from Harassment Act 1997 and the Criminal Justice System
• - Local authority initiatives (e.g. The Sanctuary Project)
• - Implications arising from the Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004
• The impact of homelessness on clients escaping domestic violence
• Relevant homelessness legislation including the Housing Act 1996, the Homelessness Act 2002 and the 2006 Homelessness Code of Guidance
• Options for support for clients with insecure immigration status
• Good practice issues including confidentiality, interview techniques and referrals to other agencies.

Suitable for

Advisers who give housing advice and support to those who have experienced domestic violence. Participants should have a basic working knowledge of housing and homelessness legislation. Previous training in domestic violence awareness would be an advantage.

Run this course in-house

All of our courses can also be run in-house, at your office or a venue of your choice. For details please call Amanda on 0844 515 1161 or email inhousetraining@shelter.org.uk