Agenda item

Rachel Phelps, LGA Adviser, outlined the report on the joint Home Office and Ministry of Justice consultation on the draft Domestic Abuse Bill. Rachel noted that four key themes run throughout the consultation: awareness, protecting and supporting victims, pursue and deterrence, and improving performance. The Government had committed to additional funding for this work and the consultation sought views on how this money would be distributed.

Members made the following comments:

·         Members welcomed the Government’s commitment to tackling domestic abuse and violence.

·         Members felt that there ought to be an emphasis on victims remaining in their own homes and that funding should contribute towards sourcing adequate refuge provision.

·         Members emphasised the need for funding to be ringfenced and sustainable. Members welcomed some of the proposed changes to housing benefit and supported housing but also made a plea for further additional resources and funding.

·         A discussion was had about the definition of domestic violence and members raised concerns about the approach being framed within the Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) strategy in case it alienates some victims. It was also noted that there was no clear reference to disabilities or the immigration status of victims. Members also wanted to ensure that male victims were not alienated.

·         Members discussed the need for better awareness and understanding of relationships to be taught in schools. It was noted that parents of some faiths did not want their children being included in sex and relationship education so a conversation about how to tackle that was needed. The Chair noted that there was an ongoing consultation on sex and relationship education on the Department for Education website and he encouraged members to contribute.

Decision

Members noted the report.

Action

Officers to draft LGA response to the consultation.