Scottish landlords to evict domestic abusers under new law

Edinburgh regulations empower social landlords to evict abusers, transferring tenancies to victims from August 1, addressing homelessness linked to abuse

New Regulations for Domestic Abuse Victims in Scotland

Regulations have been presented to Holyrood to implement part of the Domestic Abuse (Protection) Scotland Act, which was passed in 2021.

If approved by Holyrood, these regulations will take effect on August 1. They will allow social landlords to evict abusive individuals, enabling the tenancy to be transferred to the victim.

Leaving abusive relationships is a major factor in homelessness among women.

Statements from Officials

Housing Secretary Mairi McAllan stated, “Domestic abuse must be eradicated from our society and as Housing Secretary I am determined to protect the housing rights of women and children.”

She added, “No-one should have to choose between their safety and their home. These new regulations will give social landlords new powers to protect victims of domestic abuse and hold perpetrators to account.”

McAllan emphasized, “By allowing social landlords to take action on behalf of victims, we are removing a significant barrier that has forced too many people to flee their homes to escape abuse.”

She concluded, “Now the perpetrator can be made to leave – not leaving this to the victim or survivor. This is an important step in our commitment to tackling domestic abuse and to supporting those affected by it to rebuild their lives.”

Support from Advocacy Groups

Marsha Scott, chief executive of Scottish Women’s Aid, welcomed the legal change. She said, “Housing is one of the main challenges women face when ending a relationship with an abusive partner and keeping a roof over the heads of their family and avoiding homelessness are critical pressures.”

Scott noted, “Not all can stay in their own homes safely, which is why refuge provision is so important, but for the many who could, this regulatory change will bring much-needed reform.”

She added, “This change should enable women and their children to stay in their home, their schools and the area where they often have a support network and moves the consequences of abuse where they belong – the abuser.”