The action plan
DfC officials have been working collaboratively with DoH and DoJ to assist in the development of an action plan that includes actions across government to achieve better outcomes for victims of domestic and sexual violence and abuse.
The Department’s actions and activities in the Strategy include the following:
Sanctuary scheme
- The Sanctuary model is a non-statutory, victim centred initiative which aims to enable households at risk of domestic violence or abuse to remain safely in their own homes by installing a ‘Sanctuary’ in the home, once the perpetrator has left. The ‘Sanctuary’ comprises enhanced security measures and where applicable a Sanctuary room.
- The Housing Executive currently provides a Sanctuary scheme to cover all its tenants and not just those currently deemed “most at risk”.
- The Department and the Housing Executive are actively considering alternative models for the delivery and promotion of the Sanctuary Scheme to ensure that it is fully utilised to provide victims with the choice to remain safely in their homes or seek re-housing.
Funded Refuges for women at risk of domestic violence/support in the community
- Floating Support is provided to women and children affected by domestic and sexual violence who choose to remain at home or in a community setting.
- The aim is to help women with needs specific to their domestic and sexual violence situation to maintain and sustain their home and make informed choices about their accommodation needs.
Domestic and Sexual Violence helpline
The Department of Health (DoH), Department of Justice (DoJ) and Department for Communities (DfC) jointly fund a 24hr Domestic and Sexual Violence Helpline, which is a free phone service offering support and signposting information to anyone affected by domestic and sexual violence and abuse in NI 365 days per year.