Minister announces removal of intimidation points from Housing Selection Scheme

Date published: 28 January 2025

In an Oral Statement to the Assembly today, Minister Lyons said the move would support the Executive’s work in tackling Violence Against Women and Girls by focussing on how violence, or the threat of violence, affects victims and their ability to remain in their home. The removal of intimidation points means all victims will now be able to access the same categories of points.

He said: 

“It has long been a source of frustration to me, along with many others in the chamber, that the Selection Scheme treats victims of violence differently, based on the cause of that violence. Currently, a victim of terrorism receives a greater award of points than a victim of domestic abuse. Someone targeted because of their ethnic identity receives more points than someone targeted because of their gender.

“Going forward, the points for violence or threat of violence within the Scheme will not exclude any victims of abuse, violence or trauma. Regardless of causation, victims will be assessed using the same criteria within the Housing Selection Scheme operated by the NIHE.

“It is an important step forward that all victims of violence, harassment or trauma for any reason – including victims of domestic abuse – will be able to access the same categories of points within the Scheme for violence or the threat of violence.”

Minister Lyons added that although intimidation points, in the form of Rule 23 of the Selection Scheme, will be removed and the allocation of 200 points will cease, transitional protection will be applied. Applicants already awarded these points will retain them.

He said:

 “In addition, applicants who have alleged intimidation and whose circumstances are being considered under Rule 23, prior to its removal, will be investigated in line with existing policies and procedures. Where their circumstances meet Rule 23 criteria, they will be awarded 200 points.

“Applicants who have experienced violence or abuse, or who are at risk of violence or abuse, whatever the motivation or perpetrator, will continue to be assessed and provided with emergency assistance under the homelessness legislation.

“The removal of intimidation points will not alter the Housing Executive’s duty to support those who need such emergency assistance and who find themselves unable to remain in their home.”

The Housing Executive will aim to remove Rule 23 by the end of this financial year.

Minister Lyons’ Oral Statement to the Assembly can be accessed on the NI Assembly website.