Domestic Abuse, Housing and Homelessness in Scotland: An Evidence Review

INTRODUCTION

There has been little research on the relationship between domestic abuse, housing and homelessness, especially in the Scottish context. This review provides some secondary analysis of relevant homelessness and housing statistics to provide a more in-depth overview of the scale of domestic abuse as a contributory factor to homelessness in Scotland.

The review considers the housing factors and support that are available to women and children at risk of homelessness as a consequence of domestic abuse. Section 1 examines housing policy and legislative developments designed to address the consequences of domestic abuse on the lives of women, children and young people. Section 2 outlines the relationship between domestic abuse and homelessness. Section 3 explores the evidence on the housing support needs of women, children and young people. Section 4 concludes by identifying the key gaps in the existing evidence base.

The review will be used to inform the evidence base for Priority 8 of the National Domestic Abuse Delivery Plan for Children and Young People to:

Reduce the risk to women and children of becoming homeless as a consequence of domestic abuse and ensure, wherever necessary, they are supported to make the move to safe and suitable accommodation without facing additional emotional economic or social disadvantage.

It is important to note that this review is not systematic or comprehensive. It has been carried out within a relatively short timeframe and therefore does not include all the available evidence.