Issue - meetings

RESOLVED that Executive approve and adopt the proposed Housing Domestic Abuse Policy

Executive considered a report, presented by the Portfolio Holder for Housing, which sought Members’ approval to implement the Housing Domestic Abuse Policy.

The proposed policy set out how the Housing department, including Dragonfly

Management Ltd. (acting on behalf of the Council), would tackle domestic abuse, support victims and survivors of domestic abuse, and hold perpetrators to account.

The policy explained the role of the Specialist Domestic Abuse Officer, who had expertise in this area and whose role was to work with and support victims and survivors of domestic abuse.

The two pathways for homeless applicants and social housing tenants were detailed in the report.

To a question in relation to the Specialist Domestic Abuse Officer and the support they would receive carrying out their role, the Assistant Director of Housing Management & Enforcement informed Members that the Officer would primarily provide administration with medium to high risk cases referred to Derbyshire County Council and / or other providers.  While the Officer would provide triaging and handle low risk cases, support was available if their workload increased.

To a question on safeguarding training for officers carrying out repairs and maintenance in properties, the Assistant Director of Housing Management & Enforcement informed Members that annual safeguarding training was provided to all officers and that the ability to report safeguarding concerns was also available online.

Moved by Councillor Phil Smith and seconded by Councillor John Ritchie

RESOLVED that the Domestic Abuse Policy be approved and adopted.