PCC “delighted” over government change-of-heart on housing benefit

WARRINGTON-based Police and Crime Commissioner David Keane says he is “delighted” the government has changed its mind about stopping housing benefit for refuge unit.
Mr Keane had written to the Home Secretary following the government’s announcement of proposed changes to the way short-term supported housing, including refuges, was funded.
He was worried that refuges could miss out on funding to other short-term supported housing provision under the proposal to stop refuge users receiving housing benefit and, instead, ring-fence funding for emergency accommodation to local authorities.
Mr Keane asked the Home Secretary to ensure the Home Office was working with other government departments to ensure that the needs of those suffering from domestic abuse are prioritised.
Last week, the government announced that it had listened to concerns expressed by elected representatives, charities and housing providers and would continue to fund refuges, and all other short term housing provision, through housing benefit.
Mr Keane said: “I am delighted that the government has listened to the concerns expressed and will continue to provide sustainable and adequate funding for refuges and other short term housing provision via the welfare system.
“Refuges save lives; they are essential in enabling victims of domestic abuse to flee their perpetrator and provide a place where victims feel and can be safe. This announcement provides the certainty and security that victims and vulnerable people need to ensure they have access to supported housing when they need it most.”