Policy consultations
Refuge ensures that the voices of the women and children we support are represented in our responses to government consultations. Below is information on the key areas Refuge is currently focusing on, as well as links to additional policy areas. If you would like any further information on this area of Refuge’s work, please contact the communications team.
Domestic Abuse Bill
The Domestic Abuse Bill has the potential to be a once-in-a-generation opportunity to radically improve the response to domestic abuse and to challenge the gender inequality and attitudes which make domestic abuse pervasive in our society. Download Refuge’s full response to the consultation or our shorter overview document, outlining key issues the Bill must address.
Refuge funding
The Government has proposed changes to short-term supported accommodation funding, which would completely change how refuges are funded. The proposals are unworkable and inappropriate for refuges. If they go ahead, it is extremely likely that many refuges will close, putting the lives of thousands of women and children at risk. Read Refuge’s full response to the consultation and our media briefing to journalists.
Welfare reform
Recent changes to state benefits are having a significant effect on survivors of domestic abuse. Policies such as the benefit cap, two-child benefit limit and a single-monthly payment to one member of a household under Universal Credit are negatively impacting many survivors. Refuge is campaigning for changes to Universal Credit to increase the number of women who have access to income. Read our evidence to the Work and Pensions Select Committee here.
Selected policy responses by theme
2017: Refuge response to Sentencing Council on Intimidatory Offences and Domestic Abuse Guidelines
2016: Refuge position paper on the use of restorative justice in cases of domestic violence
2016: Refuge position paper on the use of perpetrator programmes to address domestic violence
2015: Refuge response to CPS Draft Guidance on Speaking to Witnesses at Court
2014: Refuge response to London Mayoral strategy on violence against women and girls 2013-17
2014: Refuge response to Home Office consultation on ‘Strengthening the Law on Domestic Abuse’
2014: Refuge’s response to CPS consultation on guidance for prosecuting domestic violence
2013: Refuge response to APPG inquiry: ‘Justice for Women: From Reporting to Sentencing’
2018: Refuge response to the consultation on funding supported housing
2018: Refuge’s written evidence to the Work and Pensions Committee on Universal Credit and domestic abuse
2018: Refuge’s response to the consultation on access to social housing for victims of domestic abuse
2017: Refuge’s response to the London Housing Strategy 2017
If you would like any further information about Refuge’s policy consultation responses, please email press@refuge.org.uk
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