New Labour claims to be tackling domestic violence on every front (Home Office 2000). In terms of housing, have they fulfilled their commitment?

In 1999, the Government published Living Without Fear: An Integrated Approach to reducing domestic violence, outlining their commitment to reducing the incidence of violence against women and the strategy for accomplishing this.

Safe housing is a basic human need. As many women are dependent upon a man for this necessity, the choice between unsafe housing or homelessness is often unrealisable.

The majority of safe accommodation for women escaping violent relationships is provided by the voluntary sector with little support from the state. Safe housing is a crucial element for women leaving violent partners.

The need for both temporary and permanent secure accommodation for women and children who have left home because of violence must be paramount

(Harwin and Brown 2000 p219)…(short extract)