Communities minister has announced the removal of
intimidation points from the Housing Selection Scheme operated by
the NIHE in a bid to ‘level the playing field for victims of
violence'.
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.
